What is Interlibrary Loan and how do I use it?
InterLibrary Loan, or ILL, borrows books and obtains copies of journal articles that the Jackson Library does not have access to online or in paper.
Who can use the ILL service?
Interlibrary loan is available to IWU faculty, staff and currently enrolled students.
What type of material can be borrowed though ILL?
Most circulating library material may be borrowed through ILL. These include books, journal articles, microfilm/microfiche, videos, and other library material.
What type of material can NOT be borrowed through ILL?
Reference books, textbooks for class use, entire journal issues, newspapers and rare books.
How do I request an InterLibrary Loan?
ILL requests must be placed through the online Interlibrary Loan request system. Login or create a new account at from the "Interlibrary Loan homepage"
How long does it take?
We recommended that you allow 3-5 days for article requests and 7-10 days for book requests.
Are there any fees for this service?
The IWU Library does not charge an ILL fee. However, some lending libraries charge a fee for lending their material. The ILL department will contact the patron if there is any cost involved above the amount indicated by the patron on the request form.
Are there any fines for overdue materials?
Patrons will be charged a $1 a day once the item is past its due date.
How do you know when your material is received?
The ILL department will e-mail you when the material has arrived.
Is there a limit to what you may borrow through ILL?
Yes. Patrons are limited to no more than 10 ILL requests per day and no more than 25 active ILL transactions at any one time.
What information do I need to request a journal article or a book?
Article - Journal title, Article title, Author, Volume, Issue, Date, and Page #'s
Book - Title, Author, Publisher, Date of publication, and Edition (if applicable).
Can a book borrowed through ILL be renewed?
Yes, renewals may be requested through the IWU ILL department at least 2 days prior to the due date. Renewals are determined by the lending library.
Where do I pick-up and return ILL material?
ILL material may be picked up at the IWU Jackson Library Circulation Desk. Books must be returned to the Circulation desk. Please do not place in the book drop.