What are Interlibrary Loan Services?
Our Interlibrary Loan Services are comprised of EZBorrow (EZB) and Interlibrary Loan (ILL).
EZB is a network of 70+ academic libraries in our region with expedited reciprocal lending.
Interlibrary Loan is a broader network that that reaches across the country and around the world.
Place your EZB/ILL request via the ILLiad platform, and we will find the best supplier.
We are happy to answer any questions -- please send them to: iloan@fandm.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I request through ILL?
You can borrow books and multimedia through ILL. You can also request articles and book chapter scans, which will be delivered in pdf form.
What happens when I place a request?
Book requests will go to EZB first. If no viable lender is found, the request will go to ILL. Article and book chapter scan requests are sent to a wide network of lenders, including EZB and ILL libraries.
How long can I keep a borrowed book?
Books borrowed through EZB are on loan for 16 weeks. Books borrowed through ILL have varying due dates, as individual libraries set their own policies regarding loan periods. Keep in mind that you must comply with the due date given by the lending library, and request renewals through ILLiad (the ILL platform), if necessary. Due dates are indicated on the band wrapped around the item.
Can I request a textbook for my class through Interlibrary Loan?
You can try! Just be aware that newer editions of textbooks may not be available. Be sure to indicate on the request form if an older edition is acceptable, as they are often easier to borrow.
What are my other options if I cannot get a textbook through Interlibrary Loan?
You can rent from the College Bookstore, or online vendors like Chegg.com, Slugbooks.com, or Amazon.com.
Who can use F&M's Interlibrary Loan service?
Current F&M students, faculty, and professional staff members, plus retired faculty and professional staff members.
How long will it take for my book to arrive?
An EZB book could arrive in 2-3 business days. An ILL book could arrive in 3-5 business days, or up to two weeks.
Book chapters, and articles from journals that are widely held, are usually available to download in anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
How will I know when my requested items are available for me to use?
For books and other physical items - you will receive an email notice when they are ready for you at the Shadek-Fackenthal Library circulation desk.
For articles - you will receive an email notice when it is available to download in ILLiad.
How do I download my requested articles?
Follow the link in the email you receive to login to ILLiad. Look under "Articles Available to Download." Click on View next to the article you want and save it to your computer.
How will I know when my book is due back at the library?
Both EZB and ILL books have a band around the front cover of the book with the due date on it. You can also find the due date in My Account in DISCOVER.
How can I view a list of all ILL books checked out to me?
Log into My Account in DISCOVER to view the list of books checked out to you.
Where do I return my borrowed ILL books?
EZB and ILL items can be returned to the Circulation Desk at either the Shadek-Fackenthal Library or the Martin Library. There is also a book drop to the left of the front doors at the Shadek-Fackenthal Library for after hours returns.
Can I renew ILL books?
EZB books cannot be renewed.
ILL books may be renewed if the lending library's policies allow it. When you receive an email that your ILL is due, follow the link to login to ILLiad. Once you are in your account:
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click on "Items Checked Out to You"
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click the "Renew" button to the right of the title you want to renew
When the lending library responds, you will receive an email message indicating whether or not your request was accepted. If so, the message will contain your new Due Date. If the renewal request was denied, the item will remain due on the original due date.
Are there fines for overdue ILL books?
Yes -- 25¢/day. What is most important is that we hear from you! Please contact us if you need to keep the book beyond the due date, even if it is overdue : iloan@fandm.edu
What if I damaged or lost the book I borrowed?
Email ILL staff at iloan@fandm.edu so they can contact the lending library to determine how best to proceed.
Can I cancel a request?
Email ILL staff at iloan@fandm.edu if you need to cancel a book request. For other materials, you can attempt to cancel via your account in ILLiad -- the option to cancel is dependent upon the status of your request.
How can I view my request history?
For items obtained via Interlibrary Loan, login to ILLiad and click on "Your Request History" in the blue banner.