Who may use Interlibrary Loan?
When can I use ILL?
ILL requests can be made for items we do not own or have access to through our database subscriptions and consortial memberships. Please do not request items without first checking to see if we own it! You can check for books here. Check for articles here (enter the journal title). You may also submit article requests directly from our databases if you see this icon: 
You can submit your requests anytime, but currently, Ritter Library staff only process requests during our "staffed" hours (with the exception of 30 minutes after opening and 30 minutes before closing) Monday-Friday.
What materials can be requested through ILL?
| Books | Music Scores |
| CDs and DVDs | Journal and Periodical Articles |
| Some dissertations/theses | Some ebooks |
What cannot be requested?
| Textbooks | Entire issues of journals and periodicals |
| Audiovisual equipment | Rare books |
| Archival materials | Software |
| Psychological tests | Educational Tests |
How long does it take?
Article requests generally take 2 - 4 days but can occasionally take longer. Articles found only in print format need to be scanned and that will take longer than articles found in electronic format. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, books may be much more difficult to obtain. Items being mailed will take at least 3 business days after the item leaves the lending library before it will be ready for pick-up. There are a variety of factors which come into play, so we are never able to make promises regarding length of time. Our goal, however, is to get you your materials as quickly as possible given the constraints of the process.
How long can I keep something?
Loan periods are determined by the lending library, but generally are around 3 weeks for books. You may contact us if you think you need to renew your item; renewals are granted by the lending library only. Articles sent via Article Exchange MUST be retrieved and downloaded within 5 views or 30 days. We will not re-request an article for you if you fail to download and save it in time.
Where do I go to receive materials I've requested?
Physical items (books, DVDs, etc.) must be picked up at Ritter Library's Information Desk during staffed hours.
Articles will generally be distributed electronically to your BW email.
How much does ILL cost?
While there costs associated with ILL services, Ritter Library absorbs those costs on behalf of our BW patrons. We reserve the right to limit how much we will spend to obtain an item.