Interlibrary Loan

Those using this service for the first time should review the ILL procedures below.

Before submitting a request, please check the Library Catalog to make sure that the item is not something owned by the Gannett-Tripp Library.

The text of some items may be available electronically through one of our subscription services. Check to see if we have print or electronic access to specific full-text journals, or ask a librarian for assistance.

Who may borrow through Interlibrary Loan?
Interlibrary Loan services are available only to current students, faculty, administration and staff of Elmira College.

What if I have a question about a request?
Questions related to ILL and requests for renewals of ILL items should be directed to Katy Galvin (kgalvin@elmira.edu) at 735-1868 or ext.1868.

How long does it take?
Routine requests typically take from one day to one week to fill but may take longer due to the variables inherent in the borrowing process. To avoid frustration try to anticipate your needs and allow three weeks for requests to be filled.

Where is it coming from?
Materials requested through interlibrary loan are borrowed from a very large network of cooperating institutions. It is not necessary for you to tell us which library owns a particular item.

How will I know when my materials arrive?
In the case of articles and other copied materials a copy will be sent to you as an e-mail attachment or a photocopy will be mailed to the address you provide on the request form. In the case of books and other borrowed materials you will be notified when they arrive and they will be held for you at the Circulation desk in the Library.

How long can I have it? 
Copied materials are yours to keep. For borrowed items, the loan rule is established by the institution from which we borrow and therefore varies. You will need to take note of the due date when you pick up your materials. It is very important to have ILL materials back to us on or before the due date. Our relationship with lending institutions depends on our reputation for reliability. Lateness or lost materials can have a negative impact on future ILL transactions. Fines for overdue ILL materials are $1.00 a day. You will be responsible for replacement charges for lost items at the amount determined by the lending institution.

What if I need to keep it longer?
If we are given sufficient notice, it is often possible to renew ILL items. This is at the discretion of the institution from which we borrowed the item. Notify us four days before the due date and we will try to obtain a renewal.

What if I don't have all of the information asked for on the form?
The system will not allow the form to be submitted without the minimum of information needed to complete the transaction, however, it will help us to expedite your request if you take care to fill in the forms as completely as possible. Incomplete or inaccurate information may cause your request to be delayed or returned to you for clarification.