Interlibrary Loan

The Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service allows students, faculty, and staff to borrow materials from other libraries if they are not available at Pearson Library. In support of heightened access to information, we are an active lender and borrower to other institutions around the world.

Turnaround Time for Requests

The time between when you make an ILL request and receive the item is based on many factors, but we always try to obtain your material as soon as possible. Articles are usually delivered to your Cal Lutheran email within 1-2 working days while books can take about 4-7 working days. We encourage students, faculty, and staff to take this timing into consideration while conducting your research.

Renewals and Returns

The lending institution sets the due date for ILL materials, so if you need to renew an ILL item, Pearson Library will request an extension on your behalf. If the renewal is approved, you will receive an email notification and your library account will be updated. 

To renew ILL materials, please fill out this form

ILL materials can be returned to the Pearson Library Circulation Desk or book drop located on the outside of our building.

Usage Guidelines

• Cal Lutheran students, faculty, and staff may have 10 ILL books checked out to them at a time.
• Normally there is no cost to the patron for using Interlibrary Loan services - books or articles are borrowed for no charge. Pearson Library covers the cost of shipping and delivery. If an ILL item is lost or damaged, the patron may be asked to cover that charge, typically ranging from $20 to $50. 
• Course materials and textbooks are challenging to borrow through Interlibrary Loan as they are limited in quantity and cannot be guaranteed for the entire semester or term. These types of items are generally lent for 3-4 weeks and therefore are not a viable alternative for acquiring course materials. 
• The use and reproduction of Interlibrary Loan materials follow the guidelines of U.S. Copyright Law, Title 17. All patrons are encouraged to familarize themselves with acceptable uses for ILL items and be aware of the parameters of Fair Use. 

Requesting Dissertations

Dissertations are not always available via Interlibrary Loan due to borrowing limits from different university presses. We encourage patrons to search the ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database before connecting with our ILL department. If necessary, we will work with you on a case-by-case basis to identify any borrowing options.