Interlibrary Loan

Didn't find what you were looking for? Are you searching for a book or magazine article that the Lawrence Public Library does not own? Our interlibrary loan service may be able to borrow the item from another library for you.

First, please verify that we do not own the item that you want. If we own the item, you may request it within the Library Catalog. If you have determined that we do not own the item you want, please click on one of the below links to complete an Interlibrary Loan request form. You will be contacted when the item you have requested is ready for you to pick up. Please submit a limit of six interlibrary loan requests per day.

Place an interlibrary loan request for a Book, DVD, video, or CD.
Place an interlibrary loan request for a Magazine Article.

What Can I Request?
We'll try to get just about anything, but there are some items libraries will not lend under any circumstances. Reference books, old, fragile or rare books, and entire issues of magazines are usually not available. Although we may not be able to borrow these items, library may be willing to photocopy a limited amount of specific information. Books, magazine articles, and federal census microfilm are usually available. We may be able to borrow audio-visual and genealogy material (see below).

How Long Will It Take?
It usually takes 10 working days, though difficult searches can take longer. You may indicate any deadline you have when you place your request.

How Will I Know If My Request Has Been Filled?
We will always let you know the results of your request by sending you a notice, or email if you provide your email address to the Check Out Desk. We hold the items for 12 days. If they are not picked up within this time frame, we will return them to the lending library in order to avoid overdue notices.

Is There a Charge?
Lawrence Public Library does not charge for this service. Most of the lending libraries also provide free interlibrary loan service, but there are some libraries that charge to lend and make copies. Any lending charge, usually from $5 to $10, is passed on to you, but only if you agreed to the charges when you placed your request.

How Long May I Keep an Interlibrary Loan Item?
The average loan period for an interlibrary loan is 3 weeks. Because loan periods are set by the lending library, this can vary. Be sure to find out the exact due date when you check the item out.

Can Interlibrary Loan Items Be Renewed?
It depends upon the lending library. Please request renewals at least 4 days before the due date so we can contact the lending library. If the item can be renewed, we will notify you of the new due date. Items may be renewed only once.

Where Do I Return Interlibrary Loan Materials?
You may return interlibrary loan materials to any Lawrence Public Library book return. Please be sure to leave the barcoded tracking band affixed to the item to make sure it is cleared from your account.

Genealogical Research
Genealogical researchers often need access to local histories, newspapers, archival materials, and government records. These materials may often be found in microfilm and print formats. If the Lawrence Public Library does not own the materials you need, the Interlibrary Loan Specialist will make every effort to borrow these items for you. If the lending libraries charge a fee for these materials, we will notify you before proceeding further. We are here to help you with your research needs!

Questions?
Please feel free to call if you have a question regarding the status of your request, if you need to renew your material, or if you need other general information. You may call or leave a message for our Interlibrary Loan Specialist at 843-3833 extension 114.