Interlibrary Loan
What is interlibrary loan?
Interlibrary loan (ILL) is a service provided by the CharlotteLaw library. We use this service to obtain books, journal articles, and other materials that our library does not own. We obtain these materials from libraries around the world.
Who may submit an ILL request?
Currently, we honor ILL requests only from CharlotteLaw students, faculty, and staff. Public patrons may use their local public libraries for ILL.
How do I make an ILL request?
ILL forms are available at the reference desk or online. For questions, please contact us at ill@charlottelaw.edu.
What types of materials may be requested through ILL?
As a matter of policy, we do not process ILL requests for items that we own. If an item that we own is not on the shelf, please ask us to search for it before placing an Ill request. Also, some materials are difficult to obtain via ILL because other libraries are reluctant to lend them. These materials include
- Rare books and manuscripts
- Loose-leaf treatises, statutory codes, and reporter volumes
- CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes
- Microfiche and microfilm
- Whole issues of periodicals (though we can frequently get copies of individual articles)
How long does ILL take?
We process ILL requests within one business day of receiving them. Requests submitted on a weekend will be processed the following Monday. After processing, we depend on the lending libraries to fill the requests as soon as possible. Typically, articles requested via ILL arrive in 1-4 business days. Books usually arrive in 7-10 business days.
How long can I keep ILL materials?
You may keep photocopies of articles obtained via ILL. These do not have to be returned. All other ILL items (books, DVDs, etc.) must be returned to the CharlotteLaw library in 3-4 weeks. The due date will appear on a cover strip attached to the book.
Is there a charge for ILL?
In most instances, we can borrow from other libraries at no charge. If a library does decide to charge us for an ILL, then we will absorb the cost up to $20. Any costs above $20 for student requests will be passed along to the student.