Interlibrary Loans

We have a lot of friends. They share with us so we can share with you.

Can't find something in the EPL catalogue? We'll make some calls. If one of Alberta's 290 libraries has it, we'll bring it in for you. If they don't we won't stop there.  We'll actually make calls across Canada and, in some cases, to the U.S. to request material for our customers.  When you're done with it, bring it back to any branch.  They don't call it interlibrary loans for nothing!

The best way to get started with an interlibrary loan is to search the Alberta Library Online. 
Search for the item and, if you find it, click on REQUEST this item and follow the instructions to submit your interlibrary loan request. If the item is not found in the Alberta Library Online, just fill out our item request form.

Once you've placed an item request, your interlibrary loan will be processed like all other EPL "holds".  This means that:

  • Interlibrary loan information can be viewed under "My Account" once the item has been received at EPL.
  • Interlibrary loan holds should not be suspended because a suspended item will be immediately returned to the owning library.
  • Interlibrary loans are placed on regular "holds" shelves for customer pick-up.
  • Interlibrary loan items must be checked out by staff. Interlibrary loans cannot be checked out via the express check machines.
  • Interlibrary loans can be returned at any EPL book return location or book drop for check-in.

What else can you request?

Remember if you can't find an item we'll do our best to find it for you.  Just fill out our item request form. 

Our Interlibrary Loan service attempts to get the materials you need from other libraries' collectons(e.g University of Alberta Library, Grant MacEwan Library, St. Albert Public Library). Requests are accepted from all customers with a valid EPL library card in good standing.

Borrowing guidelines:

  • You must use your own card when you request an interlibrary loan.
  • Unless otherwise specified, limit requests to 5 items at one time.
  • Depending on the material, an interlibrary loan may take 3 to 6 weeks to obtain.
  • Interlibrary loans are NOT renewable. The loan period is 3 weeks.
  • Late fees for interlibrary loans are $1 per day per item.
  • DVDs are not available through this service.
  • Recently published books may not be available through this service.
  • Only CD’s from other Alberta libraries are available through this service.

Interlibrary loan items do not belong to EPL, but are borrowed from other libraries. If you lose or damage an item you have borrowed on interlibrary loan, you will be charged a replacement cost and an administrative fee. Both amounts are set by the other library (not EPL) and the amounts may be substantial.


 

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