Interlibrary Loan Requests
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) services can help you borrow items not owned by PPL or other Maine libraries. We have a high rate of success in tracking down books and photocopies from out-of-state lenders. It’s worth noting, however, that many libraries do not lend e-books, movies, music, textbooks, genealogy resources, or titles published in the past year.
In addition to its digital resources from cloudLibrary, digital commons, and beyond, PPL also offers a service called Your Next Great Read that can help make informed recommendations to patrons based on their interests, favorite authors, and more.
Reference Desk staff can help you with ILL item requests as well as photocopy requests. If you have questions about getting started, ask a librarian or call the Reference Desk at 207-871-1700, ext. 725.
If there are titles that you would like PPL to add to our own collection, please email us at readersadvisory@portlib.org.
You may also use your Portland Public Library card in person at other libraries as part of Maine Reciprocal Borrowing. View a list of participating libraries. Please note: during the temporary suspension of MaineCat services, items must be returned back to the library from which they were borrowed.
ILL FAQ
How do I make an ILL request?
Fill out an ILL Borrowing Request form. Please provide as much information as possible.
How do I make an ILL photocopy request?
If you need a copy of an article from a newspaper, magazine, or journal that PPL does not own, fill out an ILL Photocopy Request form. The citation you provide is our only guide, so please be sure it is accurate, complete, and free of abbreviations. Ask a librarian for help.
How much will it cost me to make an ILL request?
During the temporary suspension in MaineCat services, PPL will limit patrons to two (2) active interlibrary loans checked out to their account at a given time. Beyond those two items, patrons can submit additional concurrent requests for a fee of $5.00 per fulfilled request
Most book and photocopy requests from reciprocating libraries are free. Sometimes, however, we must request from a library that charges to lend or photocopy. Please indicate on your request the maximum amount, if any, you would be willing to pay for your ILL.
How long will it take?
It can take a few weeks for an ILL request to be filled, based on the availability of the item. You will be notified by email when the item is ready to pick up at the PPL location of your choice.
How long can I keep the ILL item?
The due date of your ILL is set by the lending library and may differ from the standard PPL loan period. Overdue fines will accrue at the standard PPL rate per day.
Can ILLs be renewed?
Out of state ILL items may only be renewed by contacting the PPL ILL office; they are not renewable online. Renewals are granted at the discretion of the lending library. It can take a few days for lenders to respond to renewal requests, and some never respond at all. Please contact the ILL office ill@portlib.org at 207-871-1735 at least 3 days before the due date if you need more time.