#loan
If we do not have an item you want, we may be able to locate and borrow it from another library through a national collection-sharing program called Interlibrary Loan (ILL). Use the form to request materials from other libraries.
FAQ
Who is eligible to use the ILL service?
Anyone with a valid Princeton Public Library card may request items through the ILL service. Because interlibrary loan requests are labor intensive there is a limit of five active interlibrary loan requests per customer.
What materials may be borrowed though ILL?
We will try to borrow any kind of material that is held by another library. We are most successful in borrowing books and copies of journal articles. Libraries rarely loan periodicals to other libraries, but will sometimes loan reels of microfilm. We are less successful in borrowing reference materials such as genealogy books because most libraries are unwilling to send these books via mail to other libraries.
Is there a cost?
There is no cost unless a loaning library charges to supply interlibrary loans. In this case the charge from the lending library will be added to your card. We always try to get interlibrary loans from libraries that do not charge. Please note we will check with you before requesting an item that would result in any fee being added to your account.
Extended Use Fee: Our standard extended use fees of 25 cents per day applies to any ILL item kept out beyond the item’s due date.
How do I request an item through ILL?
For your convenience, you may request items online, by phone, by email, or in person as follows:
– Use our online Interlibrary Loan Request form.
– Request an item in person at the Welcome or Information Desks, located on the first and second floors respectively.
– Call the Adult Services Dept. at 924-9529. ext. 1220
– Email your request to refstaff@princetonlibrary.org. Include as much information about the item as you know. Also include your name, phone number, email address, and library card number.
What if I don’t know the exact title or author of the item I want?
Staff can help identify the exact citation, whether the item is a book, a journal article or a piece of audiovisual material. Do not hesitate to ask a staff member to help with a citation.
How long will it take to receive the item?
Turnaround time can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, including the availability of any specific item and the distance of the lending library. The average turnaround time is between two and three weeks.
How long may I keep the item?
Unless the loaning library indicates otherwise, the loan period is four weeks. You will be notified if the loaning library has placed any restrictions on the lending period.
May I renew the item?
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer renewals on items obtained from other libraries through ILL.
