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How can I get a book or journal article, which I need for my studies which is not held in any of LSBU's libraries?
Ask for an inter-library loan form at an enquiry point or print the Student PDF document or the Staff PDF if you are a member of staff - full instructions are on the form.
You can request Inter Library Loans by downloading this form and and we will try to obtain items from the British Library or other academic/public library sources.
Please note: If you request a copy of an article from a journal then you must read and accept the copyright declaration on your request.
What should I check before I submit a request?
Check the item is not available from any other LSBU site library or electronically. If in doubt, seek advice from library staff.
Once you have a charge of more than £10 on your library record you won't be able to borrow any new ILL items or submit ILL requests until you have reduced it.
How many loans am I allowed and how much do they cost?
Final year undergraduates may submit a total of 10 requests at £3.00 each and taught postgraduates a total of 20 Further requests will cost £5.00 each. First and second year undergraduates may only submit requests accompanied by a letter from their tutor declaring that these are necessary for your studies: these requests will cost £3.00 each. Requests for Staff and Researchers are free of charge.
How long will it take?
Inter-library loan requests generally take around 10 working days. They may take longer, if the material is in demand or the British Library has queried the request. These loans are not counted as part of your normal book allocation. Requests for copies of journal articles are generally quicker than those for book loans.
What is the ILL loan period?
This varies (3 weeks - 15 weeks). It may be possible to renew ILL requests. Check with library staff. Please remember to enquire about renewing items one week before the item is due back.
What happens if I lose an ILL item?
You will be charged the cost of the item, a handling charge and VAT. Even if an item is returned after an invoice has been issued by the British Library, there will still be a substantial charge.
Can I check the progress of my request?
Yes, ask at any LSBU library helpdesk or email: ill@lsbu.ac.uk
When your book is ready for collection you will be sent an email to your LSBU email address. Photocopies of journal articles will be posted to the home address for students and the university address for staff.
What happens if there is a problem in finding my request?
You will be asked to provide a photocopy of your source of reference. You will be notified if you are on a waiting list for the item.
