Requests are processed as they arrive, Monday-Friday, 8:00am-3:30pm.
What is ILL?
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) makes obtaining materials easier! If you need an item the Vise Library does not own, we can request the item (book, journal article, DVD) from another library. Another library in our system will send the item for you to use for a short period of time. Just like a library book, the item has a due date and has the opportunity to be renewed. This service is used to supplement our collection.
What can I request?
Through ILL, you can request a COPY (PDF) for journal articles or scans of books (up to 50 pages) or LOANS for physical items, such as books or DVDs.
PLEASE NOTE: We cannot request eBooks, Audiobooks, digital videos (TV/Film/Documentaries found on streaming services), entire physical copies of journals, MP3 files, or physical items over 150 years of age.
How much does ILL cost?
Most of the time, interlibrary loan is completely free. However, some libraries do charge a fee for the use of their materials. Vise Library always requests items from free lenders, but if the book is not available from a free lender we will contact you to see if you are willing to pay the fee that is associated with the item.
How do I request an item that I need?
Please fill out the interlibrary loan request form. You will be taken to a log-in screen that will require you to log in using your CU username and password. Please provide as much information as possible about the item that you are requesting.
If you are experiencing issues with our normal form, please use this form instead. The request will be processed just the same. If further issues arise, please contact us!
How long does it take to receive requested materials?
ILL can take anywhere from one week to four weeks to arrive. Please leave all straps or stickers on the item!
Typically, articles or scans can arrive anytime between one hour to one week after your request. We are a proud member of OCLC's Express Program, meaning we only select libraries lenders who, on average, send out your requested journal article within a 24-hour time frame when possible.
Books or physical material can take one week to four weeks to arrive.
This timeframe is out of our control, as we are relying on the postal service and other libraries to deliver your items in a timely manner. Nearly all ILL items are shipped without a tracking number, so we cannot estimate arrival dates or provide details of package location.
How do I know that my request went through?
You will be sent a confirmation email that your item is requested. You will also be contacted if any issues arise with your request. If you do not receive a confirmation email in two days, please email interlibraryloan@cumberland.edu.
What is the loan period?
The loan period can be anywhere between one week to six weeks for books. The lending period is set by the lending library. Articles are yours to keep.
PLEASE NOTE: Articles come with a unique passcode to access! This passcode will expire after four uses, so it is recommended that you download/print the file upon receiving it.
What is the maximum number of items I can request?
There is no limit to the number of items you can request. You will need to fill out a separate request for each item.
PLEASE NOTE: We have the right to decline ILL service if you have outstanding or overdue items. Multiple overdue items may result in suspension of your ILL account until the items are returned. If multiple contact attempts are made without response, we may place a hold on your student account, where you cannot access final grades or register for new classes. The hold will be removed upon return of the overdue item. Additionally, you will be responsible for paying for damaged/lost items, which can vary in price depending on the lending library.
Can I request textbooks that I need for class?
You can purchase textbooks through the campus bookstore.
If you are unable to purchase your textbooks for the semester, we highly suggest taking advantage of our course reserve program, where you can use a required textbook for up to three hours in the building. We cannot guarantee textbooks will be available through ILL, as most libraries have their copies of the textbook on reserve for their students, as we do for our students. This especially applies to your required textbooks for core-classes, such as Basic/College Algebra, English Composition I & II, Introduction to Literature, Principles of Biology, Fundamentals of Chemistry, Human Anatomy & Physiology, Introduction to Theatre, History of the United States I & II, Introduction to Business, Business Communications, Introduction to Psychology, and Enhanced Art Understanding.
How do I know when my item has arrived?
You will be contacted by email that your item is available for pickup (physical) or available for viewing/download (PDF/articles).
Where do I return my item?
Please return your item (along with the slip that is on the cover of your item) to the library front desk or via the library's book drop.
How do I renew an item?
Please send us an email, or stop by the front desk for renewals. Since ILL items are borrowed from other libraries, the lending library must approve the renewal request. Once an ILL renewal request is approved, you will receive an email with the new due date.
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Please contact us at: interlibraryloan@cumberland.edu or call 615-547-1299.