Library DIY: Finding Books and Articles

What is ILL?

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service where libraries borrow and lend books, microfilm, DVDs,  journals, magazines, and newspaper articles to other libraries.  Librarians want everyone to be able to access information, so they work together to get the information to the people who need it!  

If you need something that isn't owned by McGill Library, we may be able to borrow it from another library. 

If you have questions about Interlibrary Loan, or have any trouble using the request form or setting up your ILLiad account, please contact John Garrison

Please note that ILL service is not available when the library is closed for Winter Break.  

ILL form

*Important note*: to request a print book, you must use the ILL form above. To request articles or other digital items, follow the instructions below.

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Let us know what you need!!  Please read the step-by-step instructions below and contact the library if you have any questions or concerns.

1. Ask McGill for what you want.
2. When you find what you want, click on Access Options.  If you see Request item, click on it to go to our Interlibrary Loan request form.
3. Fill out the form; please provide your name, Westminster email, and any questions or special requests about your ILL.
   1. When the item is ready for you, you will receive an email from mcgillill@westminster.edu.
4. Can't find the item you need in Ask McGill? Fill out this form with information about what you need (title, author, etc.) and we'll still get it!

Please refer to these guidelines and policies when you are borrowing materials through the interlibrary loan service.  If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.

• Books/physical items:
  • Due date: this will be indicated on the book sleeve (don't remove this!).
    • Most ILL-borrowed items are due on the final Wednesday of class.
    • Some books may have a shorter loan length, typically 4-8 weeks.
    • Extensions of the due date may be possible. Please contact us to request one.
  • Late Fines: $5 per day, per item
    • It is vital that we return borrowed items to the lending libraries in a timely manner.
• Articles/Book Chapters:
  • Downloading and using:
    • When the item is ready, you will receive instructions via email on how to download it. This download is free of charge and in PDF format.
    • Please note: you will have 30 days from the notification to download the item (you can continue to use the PDF for personal uses without limit). If you are unable to download the item in time or have other difficulties downloading it, please contact us.
    • Individual use only: do NOT share the PDF file with a class or any other group. If you need to borrow multiple copies of an item, please contact us.