Skip to Main Content
Library Guides

History

Inter Library Loans

Inter Library Loans (ILLs) are items obtained from other libraries. ILLs can be requested when Plymouth University does not subscribe to a journal title or have a particular book or conference proceeding in the library.

Journal articles, chapters and conference papers are usually delivered electronically via email whereas books are delivered as physical items. 

ILL requests are free although there are charges for the renewal or non-collection of physical items. There are no limits on request numbers within sensible and appropriate use but we do ask that you should try to be as selective as possible. 

More information about inter-library loans and how to download article or book chapter PDFs... 

Making an ILL request

Check the availability of the item on Primo. If we have the item in stock, even if copies are out on loan, your request will not be processed. If an item is missing you should submit your request and note this in the special instructions field. 

To make an Inter Library loan request:

·        Go to the Primo library catalogue

·        Click the ILL Requests link (on the top bar, above the Search Bar).

·        Select the appropriate request type and fill out the form as directed. 

Requested items, particularly electronically supplied journal articles, arrive within a week. However it can take much longer. Please allow as much time as possible for your item to arrive, especially at peak times as there may be delays in processing your request.

Please note: You will not receive a confirmation e-mail for your request – do not re-submit the request. If you are concerned/have questions about your request, contact the Inter Library Loans team at illply@plymouth.ac.uk.