Inter-Library Loans is a service for members that obtains material that is not available from the Cairns Libraries catalogue. The item may be available from other libraries in Australia, so in effect, we borrow the item from another library so you can borrow it from us.

Who can use the Inter-library Loan Service?

Any member of the Library Service who does not have any overdue loans, or unpaid fees or charges is entitled to use the Inter-library Loan Service.

How do you request an Inter-library Loan?

Before requesting an Inter-library loan please check our online catalogue to make sure we don't already have the item you require.

You can fill out an electronic request form on the Cairns Libraries website (you will need to login to Member Services) or at any of our branches a staff member can assist you.

Due to copyright restrictions only one request is allowed per form and magazine articles are supplied in photocopied format.

When completing a Inter Library request please:

• Supply as much information as possible
• Indicate whether you are willing to pay all charges applicable - select "No" to fees if you are not prepared to pay.

What type of material is available on Inter-library Loan?

• Books
• Book chapters or journal articles
• Some doctoral theses
• Conference reports and proceedings
• Videos
• Special format material, for example, microfiche and microfilm
• Audiovisual material including videos, DVDs and CDs

How much does it cost?

Most public libraries provide free loans, but other libraries charge a fee which will be passed on to you. If we are unable to obtain the material from a non-charging library and you have selected "No" to fees, your request will not be processed further. We always attempt to obtain material from non-charging libraries whenever possible. Refer to our Fees and Charges for the current fee.

How many Inter-library Loans may be requested at one time?

There is no limit on the number of items that may be requested, however Inter-library Loans are included in the member's loan limit of 10 (ten) items and 10 (ten) reservations at any one time.

How long does it take and how long may I borrow the material for?

Delivery times cannot be guaranteed and requests may take between 4 - 6 weeks to be supplied. Processing of the request will be assisted by providing full and accurate details.

The loan period is generally 4 weeks and items borrowed must be returned by the due date. If an extension is required, this must be requested before the due date by contacting your library. Copied articles and book chapters are yours to keep.

Occassionally, when old or rare items are requested, the supplying library will insist that Cairns Libraries retain the item within the library - in these circumstances you will have to read the material in one of our branches.

How will I know when the material has arrived?

The library will notify you by mail, email or phone when the material is ready for collection. Please ensure your membership details are always current and correct.