Interlibrary loan

Borrow from another library

If we don’t have an item in our collection, we can often get it through interlibrary loan (ILL). Libraries around the world will send items to Stanford for you to check out. 

Place an ILL request (SUNet ID required)

Who can make an ILL request

  • Stanford students 
  • Stanford faculty 
  • Stanford staff 
  • Stanford fellows
  • Stanford visiting scholars

What to expect

  • We will email you when your items arrive. Items usually arrive within two weeks, but in some cases may take longer.

  • You can check the status of your request on your interlibrary loan account.

  • We deliver most articles and book chapters to you electronically as PDFs. We ask that you pick up other items at Green Library.

  • In special cases, items may only be used within the Special Collections Reading Room or the Media & Microtext Center in Green Library.

  • Overdue fines are not charged. Lost or damaged item fees are determined by the lending library. Occasionally, replacement copies are accepted.

  • Some requests will be filled through BorrowDirect, our expedited delivery service.

Affiliated with a Stanford professional school?

Stanford professional-school researchers should request interlibrary loan services offered by their school. 

 

Interlibrary loans for non-Stanford affiliates

Visit the interlibrary loan for non-Stanford affiliates page for details about policies and charges. 

Renew interlibrary loan items

Check the green paper band wrapped around the book's cover for eligibility. If the band says “No renewals,” you need to return the book and submit a new ILL request. Otherwise, email the interlibrary office to request a renewal. 

Return interlibrary loan items

Use any of the Green Library book return bins.

Questions about interlibrary loan?

For any questions or concerns, please contact interlibrary loan staff or call (650)725-1278.