Be sure to check our catalog for the item first. Use interlibrary loans only for older titles; if you want a newer item, fill out a Purchase Request form PDF and we‘ll look into buying it.

To place your interlibrary loan request, call 217/403–2070 and let us know what you need. Or do it yourself using the instructions below.

Place Your Own Interlibrary Loan Request with the FirstSearch WorldCat Database

Hints: You might want to print these instructions before you start. Have your library card number handy. Use this to find a specific item, not for general searches for an author or subject.

Interlibrary loans are requested through the FirstSearch database.

1. For the FirstSearch authorization code and password, call us at 217/403–2070.
2. Near the top of the screen on the main FirstSearch page, three “general databases“ are shown. Click on “WorldCat.“
3. Type your title beside the word “Title,“ then click on the “Search“ button.
4. You‘ll see a list of items with this title. It may include books, videos, DVDs, and other formats. To see what format each item is, look below the title in the “Document“ information.
5. Click on the title of the item you want.
6. Right under a description of the item, you‘ll see “Get This Item.“ Look just below that, and click on “Borrow this item from another library (Interlibrary Loan).“
7. A request form appears. Be sure to complete all of the red items, including your library card number. Other information is not needed, though your phone number may help us reach you if we have a question. In the “Comments“ box, it‘s helpful to tell us if there‘s flexibility in your request — for example, if you can use either a video or a DVD.
8. When the form is complete, click on the “Submit“ button above it. You should see a message saying, “Your ILL (interlibrary loan) request was sent successfully.”
9. Your online request will reach our librarians within a day. Most interloaned items arrive within a few weeks. We‘ll send you a notice when your item is ready to pick up. To receive notices faster, sign up for e-mail notices.