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Frequently Asked Questions about Interlibrary Loan

What is not generally available through Interlibrary Loan?

Before requesting any material through Interlibrary Loan you must check the Dallas Public Library Catalog to make sure that the material is not owned by any of the twenty-four DPL locations. We cannot request items through Interlibrary Loan that are owned by Dallas Public Library, even if our copy is for reference use only (non-circulating).

  • Items in Special Collections.
  • Genealogical materials -- libraries will photocopy index or family names.
  • Compact discs/DVD/video cassettes/Books on Tape -- limited availability.
  • Telephone directories.
  • Reference books.
  • Complete issues of periodicals or newspapers -- libraries will photocopy articles.
  • Best sellers.
  • Current publications (generally titles published in the last 3 months.
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Who is eligible for Interlibrary Loan services?

Any person who is eligible for a City of Dallas Library card is eligible for Interlibrary Loan service. The borrower must first obtain a Dallas Public Library card. The card must be current, and the request may only be placed in the name of the person or business to whom the card has been issued. The ILLiad account address must match the address posted on the library card account. The patron must present the library card when picking up Interlibary Loan materials.

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What do I need to request material through Interlibrary Loan?

  • You must have a valid Dallas Public Library card.
  • You must register through the ILLiad system and your request will be submitted to the Interlibrary Loan office.
  • Please submit one title per request.
  • Please include your library card number, full name, current address, email address and daytime phone number during registration. Please specify which location you want to pick up your Interlibrary Loan material.

To submit an Interlibrary Loan request on-line, click here.

Questions? Call Interlibrary Loan at: 214-670-1741 Monday though Friday 9:00 A.M. till 5:00 P.M.

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What will it cost?

The Interlibrary Loan Division of the Dallas Public Library does not charge for this service, however some lending institutions do. If payment is required, you must pay by check or money order only, made payable to the lending institution, and paid when you check out the item. Please write the Interlibrary Loan number on the check or money order to insure proper credit.

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How long can I keep an item?

The loan period for requested items depends upon the length of time allowed by the lending library and can vary from less than a week to a month or more. Some institutions do not allow renewals on requested materials, and some require that their loaned items be used IN THE LIBRARY ONLY. If the library has already stated "No Renewals," a note to that effect will be placed on the paper strap or label attached to the item. If you wish to extend the loan period on a renewable item, you must contact the Interlibrary Loan Division at 214-670-1741 or email the office at illweb@dallaslibrary.org at least five days before the date the item is due. The Interlibrary Loan Division is open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. Overdue materials cannot be renewed.

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How long will I have to wait for an item?

The normal process of an ILL request is approximately two to six weeks. If we cannot obtain a requested item you will receive a cancellation notice by email or mail stating why we could not get it.

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What happens if I lose or damage a book?

The lending library will request that you pay for the damage/loss and could charge a processing fee. Note that your Dallas Public Library borrowing privileges will be suspended until all fees/fines are paid.

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Where do I return materials?

Materials may be returned where you picked the item up with the ILL strap/label on the item. Please do not place Interlibrary Loan materials in the book drop without the strap/label on the item.

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