Answered By: Scott Thomson, MS, MLIS, AHIP
Last Updated: Nov 07, 2022     Views: 77

Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict how long it will take to fill an interlibrary loan request in advance. Processing time is dependent on many factors, including availability of the title and workload of the lending institution, and is not controlled by the Boxer Library.

Generally, the more obscure the item, the longer the request will take. For example, a request for an article that appears in a recent issue of a relatively well-known journal will likely be filled very quickly, but a request for an article that appears in a more obscure publication or a request for an older item not held by the library that may have to be scanned from print may take longer.

Our average turnaround time for article requests is 1-2 business days. Again though, some requests take longer, so plan ahead. Journal articles will be added to your interlibrary loan account and you will be emailed a link. Items will remain accessible in your account for thirty days. Our average turnaround time for book requests is 1 week. Books take longer since they have to be physically mailed. Entire eBooks are not available for request through ILL.

Please visit the Interlibrary Loan and Print2PDF webpage for a more thorough explanation of services, processing and limitations, and to place requests. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any additional questions.