Interlibrary Loan Services - FAQs

Q: WHAT IS INTERLIBRARY LOAN?

A: Interlibrary loan (ILL) is a method of borrowing materials, mainly books and articles, which are not available in the COS library.

Q: WHO MAY USE INTERLIBRARY LOAN?

A: This service is available to all COS students, faculty, and staff during the fall and spring semesters. Other COS library card holders (non-student community members) are not eligible to receive ILL services through the COS library. The service is available to non-students at local public library branches.

Q: WHEN SHOULD INTERLIBRARY LOAN BE USED?

A: Interlibrary loan should be used if the information you are seeking cannot be found in the college library. Ask one of the librarians to assist you in your search. Many times the information you need is available in our library even though you are unable to find a specific citation in the catalog.

Q: HOW DOES INTERLIBRARY LOAN WORK?

A: All requests must be submitted in writing on forms supplied by the college library. Be sure to include as much information as possible to ensure the fastest service possible.

Q: HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO RECEIVE THE REQUESTED MATERIALS?

A: Give yourself plenty of time. When requesting materials outside of Siskiyou County, allow a minimum of two to three weeks. A request for Siskiyou County Library materials can be filled quickly provided the book is on the shelf. We receive materials from the Siskiyou County Public Library twice each week via van delivery. If the book is not available at the time of your request, it will be reserved for you. Therefore, it is important to be specific as to your deadline for needing the information. Substitute titles can be requested, but remember to clearly indicate the subject of your search.

Q: HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

A: There is no charge for borrowing materials. However, some libraries lending do charge for photocopies or loan of books. You will be notified in advance if there are any charges.

Q: HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN MY MATERIALS HAVE ARRIVED?

A: When the materials arrive you will be notified by telephone. At the same time, a written message with your name on it will appear on the "Library Messages" bulletin board in the library. If we are unable to reach you by phone, a post card will be sent to the address listed on the form. The requested items will be held for one week after notification.

Q: HOW LONG CAN I KEEP THE MATERIALS?

A: The loan period is determined by the lending library. It is usually two weeks but may be longer. Materials are generally not renewable. Late materials are subject to applicable overdue fines. Unpaid fines and lost items that are not paid for may result in placing a hold on grades and transcripts.

Q: WHERE SHOULD I RETURN THE MATERIALS?

A: All materials borrowed through interlibrary loan must be returned to the COS library. Please do not remove any of the forms or slips from the books. When the library is closed, use the outside bookdrop. Late return of interlibrary loan materials may jeopardize the ability of COS to borrow from other libraries in the future and your future use of this service.