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Interlibrary Loan (ILL): Overview

This guide covers how interlibrary loan (ILL) works at CCS Library and includes the forms needed to request materials from external partners

What Is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) allows CCS Library to borrow items we don't own from other libraries. If the Library does not have something you need, we can place a request through ILL.

Through ILL you can request:

  • Articles
  • Scans of book chapters
  • Books

CCS faculty, staff, and currently enrolled students are able to make requests through two services. The Michigan eLibrary Catalog (MeLCat) is an in-state consortial catalog that allows CCS community members to borrow from libraries all over Michigan. OCLC WorldShare Interlibrary Loan (WS) allows CCS community members to borrow from reciprocal partners across the country. 

Patrons are encouraged to check MeLCat first, as it is usually quicker.

Peter Beard, Emergency All Nighter in Tokyo, 1994.

Before Requesting

Before submitting a request through ILL, please be sure to check the Library catalog and our databases to verify CCS does not own the item. This saves time for both Library staff and patrons. Current members of the CCS community can also request a scan of an article or a chapter or reasonable portion of a book in the CCS Library using our Get a Scan service.

Please note that while most requests are easily filled, some items might be unavailable for borrowing, including:

  • Reference books or other non-circulating materials
  • Course textbooks
  • Archival, rare, or special collections materials
  • Works published within the last six months
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