Inter-Library Loan
The Bell County Public Library (BCPL) works hard to provide a broad and useful selection of materials for its users. Some patrons, however, may have need for an item the Library does not own. Patrons with library cards in good standing may use the Library's Inter-Library Loan service (ILL) to borrow books that are not available locally.
An ILL request may be made at the Circulation Desk or by phone. Here are some guidelines to follow when making an ILL request:
An ILL request may be made at the Circulation Desk or by phone. Here are some guidelines to follow when making an ILL request:
- Provide as much accurate information as possible about the item you want, including title, author, subject matter, and other identifying information such as publication date or ISBN number.
- The Library makes the request through an online, nation-wide system and the items are shipped to the Library through a state-wide courier system or via US Mail. The Bell County Public Library has no control over how quickly an ILL item may be received.
- BCPL does not charge for ILL service within the state of Kentucky. However, a loaning library may charge a fee for the loan of certain items for which you will be responsible. If this is the case, you will be notified before the item is borrowed.
- Due dates are set by the loaning library. If necessary, you may request an extension on an ILL loan, but if it is denied by the loaning library, the item is due on the original due date.
- ILL materials must be returned on time and in good condition. Any fees associated with late or damaged items will be charged to your account. ILL materials that are late will be assessed a .25 cent per day fine until the item is returned. Patrons will be notified three times by phone and once in writing of late ILL materials. Excessive or repeated problems in handling ILL materials may result in the loss of Inter-Library Loan privileges.
- Please limit ILL requests to three at a time.
- Different libraries have different policies regarding the materials they will loan through ILL. Materials that are often NOT loaned include: new releases (less than six months), reference books, genealogical materials, audio-visual materials, and materials considered of historic or high value.