Interlibrary Loan
Interlibrary Loan Service Guidelines
What is an Interlibrary Loan?
If you are looking for a book, journal article or microfilm that our library does not own, we will do our best to borrow it for you from another library.
Can anyone use this service?
All Waterloo Library customers with a valid library card may use this special service.
Are there restrictions on what items can be borrowed?
The following items cannot be borrowed:
- Audio-visual materials such as DVDs, CDs and recorded books
- Current year materials. However, customers may submit suggestions for purchase to adailly@wpl.ca.
How long will it take to receive an Interlibrary Loan?
Waiting time varies from 1 to 4 weeks depending on the availability of the material at the lending library. Microfilm material generally takes longer.
Is there a charge to interlibrary loan an item?
In general, interlibrary Loan is a free service. In rare cases, postal charges may apply.
Please note that some non-public and many academic libraries charge a lending fee. Charges may range from $8.00 to $25.00. We will not borrow material from these libraries without your authorization. If we are unable to locate the item at a “non-charging” location and you are not willing to pay a lending fee, your request will be cancelled and you will be notified.
If you are willing to pay a lending fee, you must indicate the maximum amount you are willing to pay. We will always attempt to borrow the item from a non-charging location first.
How do I submit my Interlibrary Loan requests?
You may submit your requests in the following ways:
- Online request form
- In person at the Main Library or McCormick Branch Information desks
- Telephone - Information Desk (519) 886-1310 ext. 124, McCormick Branch (519) 886-1310 ext. 213 .
Where do I pick up my Interlibrary Loan?
Once you have been notified that your Interlibrary Loan is available, you may pick it up at the branch location you have specified.
Can I renew an Interlibrary Loan?
In many cases, renewals are possible. Contact us to arrange a renewal on your behalf. Please note that some libraries will not renew materials. If a renewal request is not granted, we will ask you to return the items as soon as possible.
Helpful Links
Interlibrary loan request form
Library Catalogue
INFO (Public Libraries of Ontario)
Trellis (TriUniversity Group of Libraries Catalogue)
Library and Archives Canada (AMICUS National Library of Canada Catalogue)
Archives of Ontario
Other Libraries’ Catalogues
Global Books In Print: Use in Library Use Outside Library
Amazon.ca
