Frequently Asked Questions

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service that allows cardholders to request books and journal articles not available at the Santa Cruz Public Libraries or through LINK+.

What is available through ILL?

Only books published more than 12 months ago and journal articles may be borrowed through ILL. 

What is not available through ILL?

• Items that are owned by SCPL
• Books published within the last 12 months
• Media materials such as DVDs or CDs
• eBooks and eResources

How do I place an ILL request?

You may place requests by speaking with staff at any of our library branches, or by contacting (831) 427-7726 or ILL@santacruzpl.org.

How many requests can I make?

Borrowers may have a total of 5 ILL items requested or checked out. Each ILL request is counted as a HOLD on your library account. You may have a total of 15 holds including ILL, LINK+, and SCPL items. 

We cannot accept ILL requests from Visitor or Educator cards or from library card accounts that are currently blocked.

How will I know my item has arrived? 

Items may take up to 4-6 weeks to arrive and we cannot guarantee they will arrive by a certain date. Depending on your account settings, you will receive a notification by email or text when your item is ready. 

How do I check out ILL items?

Please see library staff to check out held ILL materials.  ILL materials typically check out for 3 weeks, but may have an adjusted checkout period based on the due date set by the lending library. 

Can I renew my ILL?

ILL items are not typically renewable, but the ILL department may request a renewal from the lending library. Patrons may request a renewal by contacting ILL@santacruzpl.org or (831) 427-7726 at least 3 days before the item’s due date. Submitting a renewal request does not guarantee the request will be granted. Overdue ILL items are not eligible for renewal. 

How do I return my ILL?

Items may be returned at any Santa Cruz Public Libraries branch or bookdrop. Please do not remove the ILL bookstrap. It is needed to complete the check-in process.

What is the cost?

ILL is intended to be a free service and Santa Cruz Public Libraries does not charge for ILL requests. However, some lending libraries may charge a fee, which would be passed on to you. We will always notify you of any fees before we place a request for an item with required fees. 

What if I lose or damage an ILL item?

Please let us know right away if you lose or damage an ILL item. Borrowers will be responsible for paying any charges as determined by the lending library. A placeholder fee of $115 will be placed on the borrower’s account until SCPL staff can confirm the actual charge with the lending institution.