Interlibrary Loans
Making a Request
First check the Library Catalogue to make sure that the item is not already held within the university libraries. Some schools require a counter-signature on the form, either the dean of school or the project supervisor. Library staff can advise you. Some schools restrict Interlibrary Loans to final year students and postgraduate researchers. If you are requesting an article from a journal please sign the copyright declaration on the form. If you are based at Medway Campus, refer to the interlibrary loans information on the Drill Hall Library web page.
If you are unable to find the item you require complete an Interlibrary Loans form. These are available at the library helpdesks. Please give as much information as possible, including a source of reference.
Download the Interlibrary Loans Request Form (Word format)
Download the Interlibrary Loans Request Form (PDF format)
Forms can be returned to the library helpdesks at each campus library. We also accept completed scanned forms by email.
- Avery Hill: AH-ILL@gre.ac.uk
- Greenwich Campus: MG-ILL@gre.ac.uk
- Medway: DH-ILL@gre.ac.uk
Note that a maximum of 5 requests will be processed at any one time.
Theses
Doctoral theses must be requested via Ethos the British Library's digital repository website. Each researcher must first register individually with Ethos in order to make requests through the site. (Note that MA/MSc theses are excluded from the Interlibrary Loans service). The Ethos page provides more information.
Distance Learners
Distance learners can request Interlibrary Loans for journal articles not held at the University following the procedures above. It is recommended that you join the SCONUL Access scheme to acquire books not held by the University as Interlibrary Loan books have to be collected and returned in person. If you require any further information contact OSCARS Off Campus Support.
How long will it take?
This will depend on the availability of the item and the speed of the lending library. Journal articles usually arrive more quickly than books.
Arrivals
- You will be notified at your university email account when your request arrives.
- Photocopies are charged for at 5p per page.
- Please bring your notification with your student/staff university ID card to the library helpdesk to collect your request.
- Loans are normally for three weeks with an automatic extension of two weeks if necessary.
- A charge of £4.15 is incurred for each subsequent renewal of loaned items.
- The item may be recalled sooner if required by another reader.
- Please take great care of your Interlibrary Loan and do not lend it to anyone else.
- If you lose an Interlibrary Loan book the replacement cost is in the region of £137.50 plus VAT and the cost of the book.
- Failure to return it on time may result in an invoice for the replacement cost.
- The full cost of borrowing an Interlibrary Loan from the British Library will be charged for non-collection of requested items. Each book request is £9.30.
Secure electronic delivery of articles
Requests for articles are supplied in electronic format by default. Note that you will need to download the article from the link in the email within 30 days and view it within 14 days. You can only print the article once.
Information about how to request and download secure electronic delivery articles can be found in our quick guide (PDF format) and video tutorial. If you have problems activating the link or downloading a secure electronic delivery article, read the frequently asked questions for File Open provided by the British Library. Alternatively contact Interlibrary Loans staff at your campus library:
- Avery Hill: AH-ILL@gre.ac.uk
- Greenwich Campus: MG-ILL@gre.ac.uk
- Medway: DH-ILL@gre.ac.uk
Checking on the progress of your request
You may check on the progress of your request after three weeks have elapsed.
Last updated 27 October 2011.