Interlibrary Loan (ILL)
Frequently Asked Questions

What is Interlibrary Loan ( ILL) and how does it work?

How is an ILL different from a reserve?

What do I need to apply for an ILL request?

Why do I need a library card and a PIN before you can process my ILL request?

How many ILL requests can I make?

Do you charge for an ILL request?

What can I NOT get through ILL?

How do I contact an ILL staff member?

See also:
Book Interlibrary Loan Frequently Asked Questions
Article Interlibrary Loan Frequently Asked Questions
Microfilm/Microfiche Interlibrary Loan Frequently Asked Questions

What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL) and how does it work?

Interlibrary Loan is a network of various libraries and institutions in North America that agree to loan items to one another. If the San Francisco Public Library System does not have a book or periodical that you are seeking, we will ask others on the network to send a copy to us so that we may in turn loan it to you.

How is an ILL different from a reserve?

A reserve is a request placed on an item owned by the San Francisco Public Library. An ILL is a request placed to other libraries for items not owned by SFPL.

What do I need to apply for an ILL request?

You must have a valid San Franicisco Public Library card, and you must fill out the online ILL application form for the material type you are requesting. Note: The Library will not initiate ILL requests if there are any irregularities on your library account. If you have questions regarding your account, please contact any branch of the San Francisco Public Library.

Why do I need a Library card and a PIN before you can process my ILL request?

You need a Library card because ILL is available only to our cardholders, and a PIN is necessary for your online security. You may apply for a library card if you do not have one. If you do not have a PIN, you can assign one to yourself through the Log In to Your Record link on the Library’s home page. Please contact any SFPL library for more information on library cards and PINs.

How many ILL requests can I make?

You may have as many as 10 (ten) ILL items to your library account.

Do you charge for an ILL request?

San Francisco Public Library does not charge for ILL requests. However, some lenders may charge a fee—which we would pass on to you. You will always be notified of any fees before we request an item that requires fees to be paid by you.

What can I NOT get through ILL?

• items that are owned by the San Francisco Public Library, such as books, music scores, government documents, microfilm, and periodicals (such as magazines, journals, newspapers, and newsletters). This includes Library Use Only (Reference) items.
• books published in the current calendar year.
• audio/visual items, such as audio books, compact discs, DVDs, and videotapes.
• software and other documents published on computer discs.

How do I contact an ILL staff member?

The Interlibrary Loan department is located on the First Floor of the Main Library. You may call for the department during open hours at (415) 557-4406. There is no ILL staff on Sunday.
Written correspondence to the ILL Department may be sent to:

Interlibrary Loan
San Francisco Public Library
100 Larkin Street
San Francisco CA 94102

E-mail may be sent to webmail@sfpl.org