Interlibrary Loan FAQs

• What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

  ILL service provides access to materials that are not in our collection, including:

  • Books, except those published within the last two years
  • Newspapers on microfilm
  • Photocopies of specific pages from journals and newspapers
  • Photocopies of specific information from genealogy or other non-circulating materials
  • Theses and dissertations
  • Government documents
  • Reports and conference proceedings
  • Music scores

• Who can use Suggest a Purchase?

  Physical items such as books, audiobook CDs, and DVDs

  Only library cardholders with full privileges may suggest a purchase of physical items.

  Cardholders who have cards in the following statuses may not suggest purchases of physical items:

  • Accounts with balances of more than $75 in fees
  • Online registration
  • Student cards
  • eCards

  Digital items such as eBooks and downloadable audiobooks

  Library cardholders in these statuses may suggest a purchase of digital items:

  • All-access cards
  • Student cards
  • eCards

• Who can use interlibrary loan (ILL)?

  You can use interlibrary loan if you have a library card, unless your card has one of the following statuses:

  • Reciprocal borrowers (Non-King County Residents)
  • Cards that are unable to borrow items due to fees
  • Limited checkout
  • Online registration
  • Visitor cards

• How long does it take?

  Typically 2-4 weeks, depending upon the number of libraries that own the item and its availability. Specialized items may take longer.

• Can I cancel a purchase suggestion or remove an old suggestion?

  No. Limitations on the BiblioCommons software do not allow for cancellations or removal of old suggestions at this time.