If you need a book or journal article the LCU Library does not own, an interlibrary loan service is available in which you may borrow materials from other libraries. The process is very simple! Before requesting ILL, check the LCU Library catalogs and full-text databases as well as Texas Tech and Lubbock Public Library for local holdings.
What may be borrowed?
Books and journal articles
Libraries usually do not lend rare books, current best sellers, microforms, reference books or dissertations. Libraries as a rule do not loan the actual journals; copies of articles are mailed.
Who may use the service?
Any current LCU student, faculty or full-time staff member.
Distance students (outside Lubbock county) should contact their local public library.
Where/How do I request ILL?
An ILL request form is available at the circulation desk or from the Adminstrative Assistant.
ILL requests are processed Monday through Thursday 8am-5pm and Friday 8am-noon.
Send your request via email - ILL@lcu.edu
Contact: 806-720-7328 or holly.matthews@lcu.edu for questions.
An email link is also provided from any First Search database (click the ILL button on toolbar)
What information is needed to request materials?
You need to provide the complete bibliographic information for each item needed.
For books: author, title, publisher, date, and ISBN.
For articles: author & title of the article, full journal title, volume, date, & page numbers (ISSN or OCLC # is also helpful).
Must I provide the complete citation?
YES! Without complete information your request may be delayed or cancelled.
May I use abbreviations on the request?
NO! Abbreviations for journal titles often result in a delay or rejected request. Please do not guess. Search the index for abbreviation lists for full titles. Complete information is essential for effective service.
How long does it take?
Requests will vary depending on the lending library. On average, allow at least 5 days to 3 weeks for an ILL transaction. Loan terms are set by the lending library.
What does it cost?
Most requests are free, however there may be a cost up to $20. All costs set by the lending library, including lost book fees, are the patron's responsibility.
How will I know when materials have arrived?
You are notified by phone or email.
Where do I return books?
Any book borrowed through an LCU ILL transaction should be returned to the LCU circulation desk or Administrative Assistant. Copies of articles are yours to keep.
What about copyright laws?
All requests for photocopies must comply with the federal copyright law.
LCU Library keeps track of the number of requests per journal title to insure coyright laws are observed.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE: WARNING CONCERNING COPYRIGHT RESTRICTIONS
The Copyright Law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specified conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be “used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship or research.”
If a user makes a request for, or later uses, a photocopy or reproduction for purposes in excess of “fair use,” that user may be liable for copyright infringement. This institution reserves the right to refuse a copying order if in its judgment, fulfillment of the order would involve violation of the Copyright Law.
updated April 2007