Lake Bluff Public Library
123 E. Scranton Ave.
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
847.234.2540 Phone
847.234.2649 Fax
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
847.234.2540 Phone
847.234.2649 Fax
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Interlibrary Loan - what is it and other frequently asked questions.
Is the item you’re looking for not in Lake Bluff
Public Library’s collection?
If you place an Interlibrary Loan request, we might
be able to get it for you!
What It Is?
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a system that allows users at one library
to borrow items or receive photocopies of documents from another library. The
patron (you) makes a request, and the library, acting as an intermediary, obtains
the item from another institution.
Who Can Use It?
ILL service is available to all Lake Bluff Public Library
patrons with an active account in good standing. If you have a library card
from another library, we ask that you place ILL requests with your home library.
How Many Can I Ask For?
Patrons are limited to four outstanding requests (arrived
or asked for) at a time. Once the limit has been met, items need to be returned
in order for new requests to be placed.
What Can I Get Through ILL?
Almost anything, but there are limits.
· We are not able to obtain items from outside the state, so all items
must come from somewhere in Illinois.
· New items, released in the last 6 months, are difficult to obtain
via ILL. Even for the hottest new items, though, it can still be worth placing
a request; it’s possible that the library is planning to acquire the item,
and we can give you a call when it’s in!
· The Lake Bluff Public Library strives to meet patron needs locally
before resorting to an ILL request. If an item is owned by the library and
can be obtained in a reasonable amount of time by placing a hold request, patrons
are encouraged to do this rather than request the item from another library.
How Long Does It Take?
It depends on how
long it takes to find a willing lender, plus the time to get the item shipped
to us. Usually, this takes anywhere from a couple of days to a week.
How Do I Get Started?
Simply fill in the form above, and the library
will contact you when the item has been acquired. We will also contact you
if it is determined to be unavailable at this time. If you are having trouble
with the form, please contact the library via phone or email.
