How do I request a book from another library?
Can I borrow a book from another library if LLNL doesn't have it? It looks like UC Berkeley and Stanford both have copies.
Answer
Yes, you can! We use a system called Interlibrary Loan to borrow books from other libraries, all around the country. This service is available to all LLNL staff members.
We can attempt to borrow most anything you need. Please submit a request form with as complete information as possible, and we will try. If we cannot obtain the material, we will contact you. Remember to check the Library catalog to make sure that the LLNL Research Library don't own what you need.
There is no charge for interlibrary loans. We do ask for project/task numbers for interlibrary loans to cover FedEx, mailing or other charges levied by loaning libraries to send or return borrowed materials such as books or journal articles. These are sent via FedEx or UPS to us from some locations. These costs are minimal and will vary according to the weight of the package.
Average time to receive an item is 5 days. However, it can vary greatly depending on how readily available material is from another library. If you are working against a deadline please let us know, and we will try to obtain the needed material in time. You'll pick up the material at the Research Library, and return it here as well.
The library lending the material sets the loan period, which vary anywhere from one to eight weeks. It may be possible to renew loans for an additional two weeks; renewals should be requested a few days before the due date. Second renewals are generally not granted by the lending library. For additional information, please call 2-5277.
