Interlibrary Loan

The Austin Memorial Library participates in the national interlibrary loan program that permits the library to borrow materials for its patrons from other libraries.  This interlibrary loan service is available to all patrons whose record is clear of fines and overdue items.  Books and photocopies of articles from periodicals not owned by Austin Memorial Library, or that are otherwise unavailable, may be requested for loan through interlibrary loan.  Recordings, microfilm, and genealogy materials may be requested but are often difficult to obtain.  Items owned by the library, but checked out to another patron, may not be borrowed through interlibrary loan unless the item requested in more than two months overdue.

The Austin Memorial Library does not charge for interlibrary loan service; however the patron is responsible for charges or fines imposed by the lending library.  Every attempt will be made to borrow items from libraries that do not charge fees for loaning materials.  If a patron does not wish to borrow an item if charges are imposed (such as insurance fees, lending fees, photocopying charges), this must be stipulated when the request is made.  Fines for overdue materials and processing costs for lost items will vary with the lending library and are the reasonability of the patron.

The library restricts the number of items requested by an individual patron or meter the number of items referred through interlibrary loan when necessary to ensure fair, equitable, and timely service within the constraints of budget and staffing.  This action will only be taken in consultation with the patron and alternative sources for service will be suggested.  Request that staff determines may violate copyright laws will not be accepted.  Photocopies received through interlibrary loan will be stamped with a notice of copyright.

August 8, 2006