Library Resources: Interlibrary Loans

Click here to submit a request for an interlibrary loan (books, articles, etc).

Below are some tips to help you locate free full-text articles online prior to submitting an interlibrary loan request. Often times, you can find the full-text version of an article via legitimate sites such as ResearchGate via Google and/or Google Scholar. Your librarians are going to do this prior to asking a college or university librarian to borrow articles. Give it a try! Keep in mind that you will find more full-text articles in the library's electronic databases than you will find via Google or Google Scholar.

1. Open Google or Google Scholar on an Internet browser. If you strike out in one, try the other.
2. Enter the title of the article in the search box. If the title has a lengthy subtitle, do not include it in your search string. It may be useful to include PDF and/or one of the author's last names after the title. If available, your article should appear as one of the first few results.
3. If you click an article's title, you may be taken to a publisher's site that will ask you to pay for full text. Do not pay for articles. Instead, look for a PDF or HTML link to the right of the article on the search results page in Google Scholar. Often times, this is a free, full-text copy of the article.
4. Be persistent. Some links will be false positives. Try clicking on several different links in the search results, especially if you are searching in Google rather than Google Scholar. Often times, you will find the full-text of the article you are seeking.
5. That said, many articles that you find online are legitimately trapped behind paywalls. If you are unable to find the full-text article for free online, feel free to submit an interlibrary loan request using the hyperlink at the top of this page.

What is an Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

An Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a valuable service that enables students, faculty, and staff to access books, articles, and other materials not available in the library’s print or electronic collections. Through partnerships with other libraries, ILL expands your access to a vast network of resources, ensuring you have the materials you need for research, study, or personal enrichment.

Key Information About Interlibrary Loans

Who Can Request an ILL?

• All students, faculty, and staff of St. Johnsbury Academy are eligible to use this service.

How Do I Request an ILL?

• Simply submit your request via the link on the left side of the screen.

• Ensure your request includes accurate details about the material to help expedite the process.

How Long Does It Take to Receive Materials?

• Electronic resources (e.g., journal articles, eBook chapters) are typically delivered within 2 business days.

• Print books usually arrive in 7–14 business days, depending on the lending library’s processing and shipping times.

• Note: The library processes requests promptly using legitimate channels, but delivery times depend on the lending institution. We strive to get materials to you as quickly as possible!

How Will I Receive My ILL Materials?

• You’ll receive an email notification when your materials are available.

• Electronic materials (articles, eBook chapters) are sent directly to your email as digital scans.

• Physical books are held at the Circulation Desk for pickup at your earliest convenience.

How Long Can I Borrow ILL Materials?

• Books: The due date is set by the lending library and will be indicated on a band attached to the book. Books may be recalled by the lending library at any time and cannot be kept for an entire semester.

  • Renewals may be possible—contact a librarian to request an extension.

• Articles: Digital files may have expiration dates set by the lending library, so we recommend downloading or printing them immediately upon receipt to ensure continued access.

Is There a Limit on Requests?

• Great news! There is no limit on the number of ILL requests you can submit, so feel free to request as many as you need for your academic assignments.

Who Do I Contact for Help?

• For questions or to follow up on an existing request, reach out to:

  • Christine Slater, Associate Librarian

  • Email: christine.slater@stjacademy.org

Why Use Interlibrary Loans?

ILL is a powerful tool to access a world of knowledge beyond the walls of the Grace Stuart Orcutt Library. Whether you need a rare book, a specialized article, or a resource for a unique project, ILL makes it possible. Take advantage of this free service to enhance your research and learning experience!

Tips for a Smooth ILL Experience

• Submit requests early to account for delivery times, especially for print materials.

• Check details carefully when requesting to avoid delays.

• Monitor your email for notifications about your materials’ arrival or any updates.