Interlibrary Loan
Can't find what you're looking for at PCPL? Request it.
You can request items from other library systems and pick them up at your local library. This service is called Interlibrary Loan. It is best to verify that we do not own the item or have it on order by looking it up in the catalog first.
On this page:
- Interlibrary Loan Service
- What is Interlibrary Loan?
- Who is eligible to use this service?
- What types of materials can not be requested?
- How long does it take?
- What will it cost?
- What about genealogy materials?
- How do I submit a request?
- Can an interlibrary loan be renewed?
- What are fines for overdue interlibrary loan materials?
- Can I return my interlibrary loan book at any library?
- Are there any limits on how many items I can request?
Interlibrary Loan Policy
Read our Interlibrary Loan policy [PDF] before you place a request.
What is Interlibrary Loan?
Through Interlibrary Loan, you can borrow items that we do not own in our library system. We use a nation-wide computer catalog system to locate material and then ask other libraries to loan or photocopy the material needed.
Who is eligible to use this service?
Any Pima County resident with a valid full-service Pima County Public library card can use this service. Customers with incorrect addresses or any fines will have to clear up any of these problems before they can submit an Interlibrary Loan request.
What types of materials can not be requested?
- New books (within one year of publication). New books often have waiting lists on them. Libraries will not loan new materials via Interlibrary Loan because they want their own customers to be able to use new books.
- Any item that is owned by or on order for any Pima County Public Library.
- Audio-visual materials: CDs, books on tape, videos, DVDs and computer software.
- Electronic Resources
- Books available as reference items at any Pima County Public Library.
- Rare, fragile or books in heavy demand.
- Material from the National Archives or materials from libraries outside of North America.
- Books that you borrowed via Interlibrary Loan in the past year. You can only request a title once per year.
How long does it take?
Usually four to six weeks. The length of time you will have to wait for an Interlibrary Loan varies.
What will it cost?
In most cases, this service is free. We cover all shipping and processing charges. However, sometimes the library that owns the material charges a lending fee or copying cost. These costs are your responsibility. If a library charges a fee, we will notify you in advance for your approval.
What about genealogy materials?
Genealogy materials are the hardest to obtain. Sometimes the library that owns the material will not lend the item, but will copy the index or pages with a specific names. If you have a specific family name in which you are interested, please state it on the form.
How do I submit a request?
Please place your Interlibrary Loan request at any branch or fill out the online Interlibrary Loan request form.
Can an interlibrary loan be renewed?
Because of the specialized nature of Interlibrary Loans, we are unable to renew any items.
What are fines for overdue interlibrary loan materials?
There is a three (3) day grace period for Interlibrary Loan books. Fines for overdue books are fifty cents per day, with a maximum of $10.00. Charges for lost or damaged books are billed to you at whatever rate the lending library charges.
Can I return my interlibrary loan book at any library?
No. Interlibrary Loan materials must be returned to the pick up location.
Are there any limits on how many items I can request?
You are limited to six (6) Interlibrary Loan requests at a time (including Interlibrary Loan items currently checked out). This can be a combination of items, such as 4 books and 2 photocopy articles, or 6 books.