Inter-library loans service for London-based students
What can I request?
Material that we do not hold at the School including journal articles, whole journal issues, book chapters and whole books.
We cannot provide theses (try EThOS); unpublished material; or more than one article or chapter from a single journal issue or book.
How do I request material?
You should make requests via the Library Catalogue. Log-into the catalogue using your ID number (on your School ID next to the barcode) and PIN (please ask at the Enquiries Desk if you have not received this). Once logged-in select the Interloans option from the menu bar, choose the type of material you want to request, and then fully complete the request form. You must complete a separate form for each item you want to request. Please ensure you agree to the copyright declaration as we will be unable to process your request without this.
Please see our short video (4.07 mins) for further information on placing orders via the Library catalogue.
How will I receive my request?
Requests for journal articles or book chapters will be sent to you electronically. You will receive an email containing a link where you can download your item as a PDF from the British Library server. If you wish to download and print your interloan on your own computer, you must download and install the FileOpen plug-in first. IT Helpdesk staff can help you with this if needed. You must also download and print your request within 30 days of the email send date. Any items which expire will need to be requested again, incurring another charge. Please see our guide for all the information you need about electronic delivery.
Books and issues of journals should be collected from the Enquiries Desk. They can usually be borrowed and must be returned by the due date.
How long will it take?
Our usual supplier, The British Library, typically dispatches requests within 5 working days. However, we cannot guarantee a delivery time and you will not be able to cancel a request because it took longer to arrive than anticipated. We will inform you of any significant delays.
How much does it cost?
Each supplied request, or renewal, costs £2.00. The cost of your requests will be added to your Library account, and must be paid for at the Library Enquiries Desk within 30 days. Failure to pay within this period will result in your Library account being blocked.
