Download a copy of our ILL Guide:
Step-by-Step Guide ILL Requests

All ILL services are governed by the American Library Association Interlibrary Loan Code, national and regional agreements, and the Copyright Law (PL 94-553).

Interlibrary Loan 
McAllen Public Library
4001 N. 23rd St. 
McAllen, TX 78504 

Email: interlibraryloan@mcallen.net 
Phone: (956) 681-3000 

• What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?
  
  

  Because no library can own everything, ILL is a system that allows libraries to share resources with one another. The ILL Department locates a potential lending library and sends a request to borrow the item you seek. The lending library photocopies articles or checks out the material in the name of MPL. It then mails it to MPL for you to pick up and check out on your library card.

• How do I order an ILL?
  
  

  Patrons may have up to 6 active requests (filled or pending) at once through ILL. A valid MPL card, PIN number, and email address are required for notification purposes. You may also place an ILL request at the Information Desk of any MPL location.

• What information do I need to place an ILL request?
  
  

  For each item you request, the following information is needed:
       • author’s name, book title, publication date (if known)
  
  When requesting an article from a magazine or journal, you will need:
       • journal title, article title, volume #, and article page #s

• Why am I having trouble placing my ILL request online?
  
  

  If you encounter an error while placing your ILL request, check your library account for restrictions. Possible issues include overdue materials, fines of $1.00 or more, lost items, or outdated contact information. Resolve these issues before submitting your ILL request.

• How much does it cost?
  
  

  We do not charge fees for ILL requests unless they're assessed by lending library.  Photocopies of articles are typically free or available for a minimal fee. Indicate the maximum amount you're willing to pay for requested materials on each form. Overdue fines for ILL items are $0.10 per day. If an item is lost or damaged, you are responsible for the replacement cost & any additional processing fees charged by lending library.

• How long will it take?
  
  

  The time to obtain a loan or photocopy can vary significantly as it depends on the lending libraries' processing times. While we cannot control these timelines, most materials are typically available between two weeks and two months after your request submission.

  Submit your requests well in advance of your anticipated need. You will receive notification by email when the material arrives. Items ready for pick-up will be held at the Circulation Desk for 7 days. If we are unable to fulfill your request, you will be notified of its unfilled status via email.

• How long do I get to keep the material?
  
  

  The lending library sets the loan period & renewal policy, typically allowing a 2-week borrowing period. ILL is essential for resource sharing, and borrowing is a privilege. Some materials may have restrictions like in-library use, shorter loan periods, or no renewals, which we respect.
  
  Users must honor due dates and comply with any restrictions. ILL depends on goodwill between libraries, & late returns can lead to lenders refusing to lend to us. Return ILL materials by due date on your checkout slip.
  

• Where should ILL books be returned?
  
  

  Return ILL materials to the MPL Circulation Desk where you first picked them up to clear the paperwork before they are sent back to the lending library. Do not return ILL materials in the book drop.
  

• How are books renewed?
  
  

  The lending library decides on renewals case-by-case. To request a renewal, contact the ILL office 3 days before the due date. We will request the renewal and notify you of the decision.
  
  Renewals are not granted for overdue books. Items not renewed must be returned by the due date to avoid fines. Media materials (DVDs and CDs) are loaned for 2 weeks with no renewals.
  

• What kinds of materials are difficult or impossible to get?
  
  

  Although we try to fulfill most requests, the following materials are often difficult or impossible to obtain through ILL: