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Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

For items not owned in our SWAN catalog, we can request them through interlibrary loan (ILL), an agreement among libraries throughout the United States to share materials by lending to each other.

To search beyond the SWAN catalog and request an interlibrary loan, click here.

Who is eligible to use the Interlibrary Loan service?

West Chicago Public Library cardholders in good standing may use this service. All other cardholders must go to their home library to make ILL requests.

What may be requested?

  • Books (print and audio)
  • DVDs
  • Music CDs
  • Articles (We request photocopies or electronic documents, not entire journals)

How long does it take to get materials?

Allow at least two weeks for receipt of materials. If the Library can’t get an item, you will be notified.

Where do I pick up my Interlibrary Loan item(s)?

Ask for your ILL item(s) at the Checkout Desk.

Loan periods:

  • Loan periods are determined by the lending library. Average loan periods are two to four weeks.
  • Some materials are restricted to in-library use only.
  • Photocopies are yours to keep. If an email is provided, we may send you an electronic copy.

Loan periods must be observed by the patron. Standard overdue fines will apply. Cost of the item may be billed for items more than 14 days overdue. Abuse of ILL policies can result in the suspension of ILL borrowing privileges.

Renewals

Unless it has a “No Renewal” sticker on the item, ILL items may be eligible for up to two renewals if the lending library approves. Call 630-231-1552, ext. 2, or visit the Checkout Desk to renew your ILL items.

Lost/Damaged Items

The lending library determines the cost of replacing a lost item. Some libraries charge flat rates up to $150 for lost or damaged items. You are responsible for paying the replacement cost assessed by the lending library as well as any processing costs. (WCPLD does not accept a replacement copy of the actual item.)

Libraries generally do not lend new materials (published within the past six months) outside their system; we will evaluate recently published items for potential purchase.

Other questions about Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

Please call the reference staff at 630-231-1552, ext. 4 or email [email protected]

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