What is library mail shipping

Library mail shipping, also known as interlibrary loan (ILL) or document delivery, is a service provided by libraries to borrow and lend books, articles, and other materials to patrons. The service allows libraries to share resources with other libraries, extending the availability of materials to patrons who may not have access to them otherwise.

Here's how it typically works:

  1. A patron requests a book or article that is not available in their local library's collection.
  2. The library searches for the item in other libraries through a network of libraries, such as OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) or ILLiad (Interlibrary Loan System).
  3. If the item is found in another library, the requesting library sends a request to the lending library to borrow the item.
  4. The lending library checks the item out to the requesting library, usually for a short period of time (e.g., 2-4 weeks).
  5. The requesting library sends the item to the patron, usually through mail or courier service.
  6. The patron returns the item to the requesting library, which then returns it to the lending library.

Library mail shipping is an essential service for libraries, as it:

  1. Expands access to materials: By sharing resources, libraries can provide patrons with access to materials that may not be available in their local collection.
  2. Saves time and money: Libraries can avoid purchasing duplicate copies of materials and reduce the need for patrons to travel to other libraries.
  3. Supports research and education: Interlibrary loan services enable researchers and students to access a wider range of materials, facilitating research and learning.

Some common types of materials that are typically shipped through library mail services include:

  1. Books
  2. Articles (print or digital)
  3. Theses and dissertations
  4. Conference proceedings
  5. Government documents
  6. Music scores
  7. DVDs and other multimedia materials

Keep in mind that not all libraries participate in interlibrary loan services, and some may have specific policies or restrictions on what materials can be borrowed or lent.