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.

That library in the wilds of Alaska has the book I want

The Internet has provided us with numerous ways to locate information and items to borrow - library catalogs, WorldCat.org, Amazon, historical society websites - just about everyone has links to resources on every topic.

So you've found a library that owns the item you want - what can the interlibrary loan department do for you?

Keep in mind that the library that owns the item may not be willing to lend it out or may charge fees for loaning items to CCPL. If the lending library charges a fee, the fee is passed on to the person ordering the item.

Since most people want free items, the interlibrary loan department will begin locating free lenders geographically. We start with South Carolina libraries, then move to North Carolina and Georgia, then expand our search as needed. Most of our items are located at libraries within the southeast.

So if you want that book from Alaska, please know that we will try to locate a lending library closer to us first, so that you can get your book faster!