Info for other libraries and institutions
Borrowing from KU Libraries (KKU)
How do I place an interlibrary loan request for materials from the University of Kansas Libraries?
We prefer to receive requests through OCLC, Rapid or Agent (KICNET). We will accept requests via:
- Email: ILLLend@ku.edu
- U.S. Postal Service:
Interlibrary Loan
Watson Library
1425 Jayhawk Blvd, Rm 210L
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS 66045-7544
Article requests for Kenneth Spencer Research Library (KFS)
Copy requests may be sent to KKU for processing or you may contact Spencer Library's Reader Services.
Do you provide a rush service?
Yes, staff and workload permitting. Please call ahead regarding RUSH requests. Items will be sent within 24 hours. There is an extra $12 surcharge.
Loan/copy fees:
Basic charge (item typically sent within 4 business days):
- OCLC IFM users: $15
- Others: $18
We accept payments by:
- OCLC IFM (preferred)
- Checks
- Credit Card - American Express, Discover, Mastercard & Visa
- IFLA Vouchers
Fees are waived for ILL requests for:
- Kansas libraries (except for Kansas corporations and businesses)
- Greater Western Library Alliance libraries who participate in GWLA ILL
- Libraries with reciprocal lending agreements
We charge for copies sent to Kansas corporations and businesses.
Delivery fees
Loan delivery options:
- Library rate - No additional fee
- 1st class - $5 surcharge
- UPS or FedEx ground - $5 surcharge if we use our account. No surcharge if you supply your account number.
- Airmail - Approximate postage costs will be added.
Copy delivery options:
- Odyssey
- Article Exchange
We currently do not use UPS or FedEx for international shipments. We use Priority Airmail for items over 4 pounds.
Liability
Per the National Interlibrary Loan Code the requesting library assumes responsibility for borrowed material from the time it leaves the supplying library until it has been returned to and received by the supplying library. This includes all material shipped directly to and/or returned by the user. If damage or loss occurs, provide compensation or replacement, in accordance with the preference of the supplying library. Repair or replacement costs are determined by a bibliographer, plus a $20 service fee.
How long does it take to process my request?
Materials leave the ILL Office by the second business day.
How do I receive my materials?
Copies are sent via Odyssey, Article Exchange or email
Books are shipped in the United States via:
- U.S. Mail - library book rate or first class (with a surcharge)
- UPS
- FedEx
Materials sent internationally are shipped by airmail with a surcharge. Please return KU materials via airmail.
How long is the loan period?
The loan period is 16 weeks with no renewal. Short-term loan period is 7-14 days with no renewal.
Recalls
Recalled items should be returned ASAP via Priority Mail, UPS, FedEx, Air Mail, etc. — not by library/book rate or surface mail.
What materials may or may not be loaned?
Please check KU Libraries Catalog for holdings and the status of materials.
The following materials may be loaned:
- Microfiche and microfilm
- Theses and dissertations
- Music scores
- CDs
- Books
- Maps published after 1964
- Documents
- CD ROMS
- DVDs & VHSs
- Bound or unbound journals
The following materials may NOT be loaned:
- Maps published before 1964 - decided on a case-by-case basis
- Reference materials
- Archival and Special collections
- Art oversized books
- Art journals
- Reserve materials
Other reasons why an item may not be loaned:
- Materials that circulate less than 2 weeks
- Materials already on loan
- Materials in fragile condition
Returns
Our material should be returned in a box. Please do not use jiffy bags as material can be easily damaged. Borrowed materials must be returned by our due date via FedEx, UPS, U.S. Postal Service or through the Blue Sky Express, Kansas Library Express, and Trans-Amigos Express couriers.
Interlibrary Loan
Watson Library
1425 Jayhawk Blvd, Rm 210L
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS 66045-7544
We do not provide service for the following locations:
Wheat Law Library (KFL)
To request materials from this branch, please contact them directly at:
Email: lawill@ku.edu
Phone: 785-864-9255
Dykes Medical Library (KKP)
To request materials from this branch, please contact them directly at:
Email: dykesils@kumc.edu
Phone: 913-588-5073