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Interlibrary Loans


If we do not have the book, DVD, audiobook, or CD that you want, we may be able to locate and borrow it from another library through a national library collection sharing program called Interlibrary Loan or ILL. Use our online request form to request materials from other libraries through Interlibrary Loan.

*Please be sure to search the Main Library Alliance catalog before submitting an ILL request. ILL requests can only be made if the item is not available within the Main Library Alliance catalog

Interlibrary Loan Request

*Click the button then navigate to left and choose "Blank ILL Request."

Who is eligible to use the ILL service?

Anyone with a valid Roxbury Public Library card may request items through the ILL service. Because interlibrary loan requests are very labor intensive there is a limit of 3 active interlibrary loan requests per customer.

What materials may be borrowed through ILL?

We will try to borrow any kind of material that is held by another library. We are most successful in borrowing books, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks. We are less successful in borrowing reference materials such as genealogy books because most libraries are unwilling to send these books via mail to other libraries.

Is there a cost?

Generally, no. However at times a loaning library will charge a nominal fee to cover postage and/or processing costs. When this happens, we will inform you and if you still wish for the items we'll pass the charge on to you. 

How do I request an item through ILL?

For your convenience, you may request items online, by phone, by email, or in person as follows:

  • Use the online Blank Interlibrary Loan Request form.
  • Request an item in person at the Welcome desk.
  • Call the Jennifer Franzese at 973-584-2400 x110. Leave as much information as possible, including your name, phone number, e-mail address, and library card number.
  • Email your request to jennifer.franzese@roxburylibrary.org. Include as much information about the item as you know. Also include your name, phone number, e-mail address, and library card number.

What if I don’t know the exact title or author of the item I want?

Our staff can help identify the exact citation. Do not hesitate to ask for help.

How long will it take to receive the item?

Turnaround time can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors including the availability of any specific item, the distance of the lending library, etc.  The average turnaround time is between two and three weeks.

How long may I keep the item?

Unless the loaning library indicates otherwise, the loan period is four weeks.. You will be notified if the loaning library has placed any restrictions on the lending period.

May I renew the item?

Unfortunately we are unable to offer renewals on items obtained from other libraries through ILL.