Interlibrary Loans
Interlibrary Loans
If you are unable to find a book within the Riverside County Library catalog AND are unable to get it through the Zip Books Program, then consider submitting an Interlibrary Loan (ILL) request. For a nonrefundable search fee of $5.00, we will attempt to obtain the item for you to borrow from an outside library system.
What can I request?
- Books
- Audiobooks
- Music CDs
- DVDs
- Microfilm
- Periodicals/Articles
Digital materials such as digital music, eBooks or eAudiobooks are not eligible for an Interlibrary Loan request. It is also not recommended to submit an Interlibrary Loan request for an item that has been published in the last 6 months.
How does an Interlibrary Loan work?
If it is determined that an item is not within the Riverside County Library System and does not qualify as a Zip Book Request, an Interlibrary Loan request can be submitted for a particular item to be requested and borrowed from an outside library system in the U.S. There is a $5.00 nonrefundable search fee for this type of request. Keep in mind that some libraries may charge an extra cost before fulfilling the request, but staff will contact you before proceeding with such a request. Requests can take up to a month to arrive.
How do I return my Interlibrary Loan?
Interlibrary loans must be handed to library staff upon return. They cannot be returned to the book drop.
Who can request an Interlibrary Loan?
Any Riverside County Library System card holder in good standing, with less than $5.00 in outstanding charges can submit an ILL request.
If you do not have a current RCLS library card, you can register for a library card online on the Riverside County Library System webpage. Online /ecards must be converted to full service cards in order to request an Interlibrary Loan (ILL). Please visit your local library to upgrade your ecard before submitting your ILL request.
What if my requested Interlibrary Loan is not fulfilled?
While staff will do what they can to successfully request the item from an outside library, there is no guarantee that the item is available or that the owning branches will send it to fulfill the request. The $5.00 fee, however, will still apply as it is in regards to the work done to try and retrieve the requested item.
How do I get started on my Interlibrary Loan request?
Fill out the form below and your local library staff will be in touch regarding your request. Make sure to fill out the form completely, including your email address.