Requests for materials may be made via ILS forms available on-line at the links below or by completing paper ILS forms available in the library. There is no charge for Interlibrary Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q Is there a help document for using the ILS request system?
A Yes, there is an online ClioWeb Interlibrary Loan Instruction document 
.
Q Can I submit an ILS request for something the University's library owns?
A No. Please be sure and check our holdings before you submit requests. Requests for titles owned by the library will be returned.
Q What if a book is charged out at our library - then can I submit an ILS request?
A Unfortunately, we can not process requests for materials we own unless they are deemed lost. Photocopy requests can be honored if the pages that are needed are torn from the issue or the desired issue is currently at the bindery. Check with staff in such a case. For circulating books, you can request that the book be recalled at the Circulation Desk (recalled books arrive faster than books shipped from other libraries).
Q How many requests can one submit at a time?
A Patrons may submit as many requests as they like, however, during peak periods the quantity produced each day may be limited. When submitting numerous requests, one should prioritize when possible.
Q How soon will I get the items I've requested?
A Photocopies average four business days - around half arrive in as little as two. Books average 7-10 business days. It is good practice to allow enough time for your requests to be completed--submit early!
Q How will I be notified when the items arrive?
A For books, we e-mail whenever possible; all "returnables" are picked-up at the Circulation Desk. Photocopies are mounted on a secure server which will allow you to view, print, or download the material for a 30-day period. An e-mail message will be sent to you as soon as the item is ready, so be sure to include your e-mail address on all your requests. Your phone number and residence address help us, so please include them, too.
Q I submitted ten requests and only received seven. Where are the rest?
A Items arrive at different times from different sources and we notify each time material arrives. Unless there is a problem with the request rest assured all your requests will be filled in time. Once again, do not hesitate to contact the department if you have any questions regarding the status of your requests.
Q How can I submit requests?
A The best way is to submit the forms on-line (ILS Request Forms), but paper forms are still available in our office and at the Reference Desk. In addition, certain databases in FirstSearch allow a patron to initiate ILS requests directly while viewing the citation. Check with the department or Reference Staff to utilize this feature.
Q How long can I keep the book?
A Due dates are assigned by the lending library, but most lenders allow a borrowing period of six weeks.
Q Can I renew an item?
A Renewals can be requested and are most often granted by the lending library usually extending the borrowing period another month, yet there are no guarantees. You can call the department (203) 254-4000 ext. 2135 or e-mail ils@mail.fairfield.edu and request an extension. Leave your name and the IL number(s) (example, IL:769473) found on the bookband(s) of the material you wish to renew.
Q Where do I return books when I am done?
A Bring materials back to the Circulation Desk; you can also return items to our department during normal business hours. You are ultimately responsible for the materials you borrow--please be respectful. Do not leave materials in the book drops.
Q Can I get videos/tapes or micro-formatted material through ILS?
A Some libraries do lend audiovisual materials and microforms and we are able to borrow them, but be aware that these materials can be much more difficult to acquire and at times not possible at all. Also be aware that any of these materials we manage to borrow are often for in-library use only and then must not leave the building.
Q What if a request I've made can not be filled?
A We will notify you if the case is such. There are various reasons why we might return a request to you and the e-mail message or paper slip accompanying will explain. New, rare, and reference materials can be hard to obtain and special libraries may have restrictions on their collection. Be assured we will try our best to fulfill your request, but understand the limitations we sometimes experience.
Q I need a book/article immediately and ILS might take too long. What can I do?
A We can search local libraries to see if they hold the material you want and you can travel there to get it yourself. With a public borrower's card from any Connecticut library you can actually charge a book out. Inquire in the ILS department or see a Reference Librarian if you need to go local for materials. Remember that submitting ILS requests early is really the most effective way for us to serve you.
Q I am working for a faculty member and submitting requests. What should I put on the form?
A Use the faculty member's name and address. Putting your name and a contact number on the form in the "Comments" field will also be helpful.
Q I don't need the whole book - just a chapter - what form do I use?
A Use a book request form and indicate in the "Comments" field which pages you will need. Having pages sent to us instead of the whole book will greatly reduce the transit time for your request to be filled.
Q Can I order dissertations and theses?
A Yes, but be sure to include the correct information and be aware that they are difficult to get. We need to know the title, author, year, and the school granting the degree. "Dissertation Abstracts International" is just that: a collection of abstracts, so it is not the source, even though some databases will list it. We will search for the original and request it directly from the author's school or, if available, you can purchase them from University Microfilms.
The Interlibrary Services (ILS) component of the DiMenna-Nyselius Library complements the library's resources by obtaining research materials from other institutions for use by Fairfield University patrons. These services are available to current students, faculty, and staff of the University community as a supplement to the library's collection and include borrowing books, theses, dissertations, audiovisual materials, and journal article photocopies from various academic, public and private sector sources.