Print
Share page with AddThis

Interlibrary Loan

We take item requests for our patrons in person, over the phone, by email, or via this request form. Responses to the form are seen during regular business hours. If you are requesting an item in our collection and would like same-day pick-up, please call the Library at (207) 353-6564 for more immediate service.

Our Interlibrary loan service is fully available through requesting in MILS and Mainecat. We are unable to request items outside of the state of Maine at this time.

FAQ

How long will it take for my requested item to show up?

A request usually has a turnaround of one week. 

Why is my request taking so long?

If the requested item is a recent release, or there are only a few copies in the system, it may take more than a week for one to be returned and sent to us. 

How will I know when my request has arrived?

If you have signed up for email notifications, a notification will be sent automatically when the item arrives and is checked-in to our system. We also offer courtesy calls the day of arrival, to the phone number listed on your account. 

I can’t get to the library today, will I still be able to get my item?

Yes! We hold requested items at the Circulation Desk for one week before sending them back to their home libraries. 

How many items can I request at once?

You are welcome to request up to 10 items at a time, but only 5 may be checked out at a time. 

I have a whole list of items I want. Can I give it to you to request for me?

Absolutely! You are welcome to send us a list of items you would like to request by email, or bring in one in-person – typed lists are preferred, but handwritten is fine as long as your handwriting is neat. In deference to staff time, we do ask that requests of more than 5 items are not relayed over the phone. We will check the availability of each item, and request them in batches of 5 or less. 

Please make sure to include the following information with your request(s): 

  • Title
  • Author
  • Format (Book, DVD, Audio, Large Print, etc. – if you have a preferred format, let us know if you would like only that format, or if you will accept other formats if your preferred one is not available) 
  • Edition (if applicable) 

I made a request but then changed my mind, and don’t want the item I requested – how do I cancel it?

No worries at all! Let a librarian at the front desk know and we can cancel the hold for you.