An Introduction to Research Processes

Back to Library Research

If your library does not have some of the materials that you need for your research project, consider using interlibrary loan. Interlibrary loan allows you to obtain materials from other libraries without having to travel to them. Typically, libraries have an interlibrary loan desk where you can learn how to fill out a request form – either on paper or on a computer.

At some colleges and universities, you can make interlibrary loan requests from a computer in your home or dorm room or from a computer lab. If you've been using a library catalog at another university or college, you may have found materials there that your own library does not have. You can request those materials through interlibrary loan.