Skip to Main Content

Faculty Resources

Search Anywhere

How Soon Can I Get Requested Material?

How long does it take to get material?

On average, it may take up to 1 to 2 weeks to receive an interlibrary loan, but the time may vary due to factors such as where it's coming from and the delivery method used by the lender.  We strongly encourage students to consider these factors if they need a resource for a deadline.

Copies of journal articles may be delivered electronically, and therefore may arrive a great deal sooner than books or media.  Still, the delivery method is chosen by the lending library, so quick electronic delivery cannot be guaranteed.

How long can I keep the material?

Loan periods vary with each request, but ILLs are typically loaned for 4 weeks.  Due dates are assigned by the lending library, and each library has its own rules for lending.  The borrowing student is expected to return the item by the date assigned.  Loans held past the due date may be subject to fines and fees.

If a student needs more time with an item, they can request a renewal.  Many libraries allow 1 renewal per item.  All renewals must be requested through the MCTC library staff.

MCTC Doesn't Have the Material You Are Looking For?

Can't find material for your topic? We can try to get it from another library.

Here's what you can borrow through Interlibrary Loan:

Books, journal or newspaper articles, and DVDs.  You can place requests for any of these items.

There are a few common restrictions among lending libraries that you may want to consider:

  • Many libraries will not lend materials that have been in their collection less than a year, which makes it difficult to borrow popular new titles. 
  • Several libraries place restrictions on lending their DVD materials, which can make borrowing difficult.
  • Reference and special collections materials are generally not sent through Interlibrary Loan. 

Who can use the ILL service?

Who can use the ILL service?

ILLs are available to all current MCTC students, faculty, and staff.  The service is not available to community patrons.

Interlibrary Loan Request Form

Use the form below to request material from another library. Fill out the form as completely as possible.  The MCTC library will contact you afterward so you know the request has been made.

How do I make an ILL request?

How do I make an ILL request?

You can make a request in three easy ways:

  1. Place a request electronically by filling out our ILL Request Form
  2. Talk to an MCTC staff member at your campus library
  3. Call your campus library

Interlibrary Loan FAQ

What is interlibrary loan?

Interlibrary loan (or ILL) is a service that allows students and employees to borrow books, media, or journal articles from libraries within the state and across the country.  If you would like to borrow something that isn't owned by the MCTC Library, we may be able to get it for you through Interlibrary Loan (ILL).