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Library Services & Policies: Interlibrary Loan

About

Interlibrary Loan services are available to St. John's faculty, students, and staff. Before submitting an interlibrary loan request, please check the Library Catalog to make sure that the library does not own the item. Requests can be submitted via our online Interlibrary Loan Portal.

If you have any questions about interlibrary loan services, please consult our FAQ or contact John Jewitt, Public Services Librarian, at john.jewitt@sjc.edu or 443-482-6582, or Catherine Hines, Library Director, at catherine.hines@sjc.edu or 410-626-2550.

FAQ

What is interlibrary loan?

Like all libraries, the Greenfield Library owns only a portion of all materials published. Interlibrary loan is the process in which the Greenfield Library borrows materials that are not part of our collection, from academic, public, and private libraries around the world.

Who can make interlibrary loan requests?

The interlibrary loan service is available to St. John's faculty, students, and staff.

When should one place an interlibrary loan request?

Patrons should make interlibrary loan requests for items that are not part of the Greenfield Library's collection. Before making requests, always check the library's catalog to make sure that the library does not have the item you are searching for. 

How can I place an interlibrary loan request?

Requests can be submitted via our online Interlibrary Loan Portal.

How long does it take to receive requests?

Requests usually take one to two weeks to arrive. Sometimes there are delays in processing that cannot be helped. Patrons will be notified if such delays occur.

How much does interlibrary loan cost?

Borrowing from most Maryland libraries is free. However, borrowing and lending policies vary with each library. Some libraries do charge fees. When filling out an interlibrary loan request form, it is always important to fill out the section asking whether you are willing to pay a fee to receive a particular request. Although, some libraries do charge fees to fill interlibrary loan requests, the Greenfield Library makes every attempt to reduce costs and to request materials from libraries that do not charge fees. Patrons do not have to be willing to pay a fee in order to place interlibrary loan requests and will be notified if a fee is necessary to fill a request.

Where do I pick up requests?

Scanned articles/book chapters will be delivered to patron's SJC email address with a URL and password.  The scanned requests will be available in the Interlibrary Loan Portal for 30 days of receipt located within "Request History".