Guide to the inter-library loan service

What can I request?

If we don't hold the item or information you need, we will do our best to obtain it for you from the British Library, or other source, via an inter-library loan.

We can obtain books, conference proceedings, theses*, reports, and photocopies of journal articles or individual conference papers.

* Most theses are now available directly from British Library’s Ethos.

How much does it cost?

If you're eligible to make a request and haven't exceded your quota, the service is free (the Library pays the fees on your behalf).

Who can make a request?

All UWE students and staff (except first year undergraduates).

How many requests can I make per year?

UWE students studying at partner institutions and staff supporting them are not entitled to inter-library loans.

How are requests delivered?

Requests for journal articles are generally delivered in electronic format. They will be sent to the e-mail address on your library record as an attachment which you can then read on screen or print out. If you need a print out rather than electronic format, please ask library staff.

Please read this advice on opening electronic delivery documents.

The following conditions apply for copyright reasons:

• Documents must be downloaded and printed within 14 days
• They can only be downloaded, opened and printed once
• Documents cannot be saved and stored in electronic format

For book requests, you will be informed when it is available for collection. Please collect books promptly as they may have a limited loan period. You will need your UWE ID card so that books can be issued to you. Some items are for reference and must be used in the library, at the request of the lending library.

How long does it take to obtain a request?

It varies depending upon availability of the item from the British Library. If you haven't heard anything after two weeks please enquire further.

Can I renew my loan?

It may be possible to renew items. Please give library staff as much notice as possible as it may be necessary to contact the lending library.

Renewals will be deducted from your request quota.

What happens if an item is lost or overdue?

You are responsible for all items issued to you and liable to pay for any lost material. The British Library charges a minimum of £129.50 (including VAT) for lost books.

The British Library also charges up to £129.50 (including VAT) for books which are not returned on time. You are liable for these charges, which cannot be waived even if the book is subsequently returned. UWE library fines are also payable on all overdue books obtained from other libraries.

What do I need to do?

• Make sure the item is not already held by UWE library
• Provide as much information as possible about the item
• If you need two or more articles from the same journal issue please apply to borrow the whole issue. We can not supply more than one article per issue for copyright reasons
• If the item you require is for a commercial purpose, or you are unsure, please contact your Faculty Librarian. You may find the British Library guidance helpful when deciding if your request is needed for commercial research

Page last updated 14 May 2012

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