Myth #2: ILL items are just like CCPL items

Fact: ILL items are loaned to our library as a courtesy. If we violate this courtesy, other libraries will not be willing to lend items to us.

When a library lends an item to us, we are expected to abide by the terms the library sets. This may include restrictions to in-library use, no photocopying, no renewals, and return by a traceable method such as UPS.

One of the most important terms a library sets is the due date. Failure to return an ILL item by its due date jeopardizes the lending library's ability to serve its own patrons, for whom the item was purchased in the first place. Failure to return an interlibrary loan item at all requires the lender to search for and purchase a replacement copy. In the case of an out-of-print book, this can cost hundreds of dollars.

This is why yellow bands are put on our ILL items for easy identification. This is why we ask that the items not be returned in the bookdrop. This is why we charge late fines of .25/day to "encourage" items to be returned on time. If we cannot keep faith with our lenders, we will not be able to borrow items.