Show All Answers

1. What is the Inter-Library Loan service?

The Inter-Library Loan service enables customers to borrow materials from libraries outside of the North Palm Beach Public Library collection. Lending libraries participate voluntarily in a nation-wide network to provide library users with access to materials. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

2. How much does it cost?

Fees associated with Inter-Library Loan service, such as database searching and shipping charges, are paid by North Palm Beach Public Library. Customers are responsible for any charges incurred for Overdue fees, lost or damaged Inter-Library Loan items. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

3. Who can request materials?

Any North Palm Beach Public Library cardholder with an account in good standing may use Inter-Library Loan service. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

4. What can I request?

Although Inter-Library Loan was designed as a tool for researchers, requests are accepted for most items not owned by North Palm Beach Public Library, including books and genealogy materials. Please keep in mind that genealogical resources may not be obtainable by Inter-Library Loan.

Libraries typically do not loan reference materials, current bestsellers, or items in special collections. Items published in the last 12 months and theses/dissertations cannot be requested. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

5. How many items can I request?

North Palm Beach Public Library customers may submit 3 Inter-Library Loan requests at a time. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

6. Do I have to know which libraries own the items before I place a request?

It is not necessary for customers to locate the materials they would like to borrow. The Reference Department staff will make the request and locate potential lenders. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

7. How do I request material using the Inter-Library Loan service?

Inter-Library Loan requests are taken at the circulation desk, by phone at 561-841-3383, or through our online form. Online Form

8. How long does it take to receive Inter-Library Loan material?

Most Inter-Library Loan materials are received within 2 - 4 weeks. We regret we cannot guarantee fulfillment within a certain time frame. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

9. How will I know when my material is available?

Customers will be notified by phone when their items are available. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

10. How long do I get to keep an Inter-Library Loan?

Inter-Library Loans typically check out for 3 weeks. The lending library may specify a shorter loan period, which North Palm Beach Public Library staff and customers must honor. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

11. What if I'm not finished by the due date? Can I renew my item?

Unfortunately, Inter-Library Loan materials do not renew. Customers are responsible for overdue charges for Inter-Library Loans. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

12. What if an item cannot be borrowed?

Customers are notified by phone if materials are not available. Please call 561-841-3383 for more information.

13. Whom do I contact with questions about Inter-Library Loan services?

Contact reference staff in person, by phone at 561-841-3383.