What is Interlibrary Loan?
Sharing materials among libraries. Through this service, you have access to materials not owned by your local library.

What is available?
You may request books or journal articles not owned by the Abilene Public Library. ILL will not request items available at one of the three University libraries in Abilene. Rare books, DVD's, CD's and best sellers are not available through ILL.

Before requesting material, check the catalog for local holdings. If you are unsure of how to do this, please ask library staff for assistance.

How long will a loan take?
Usually two to four weeks, but the length of time varies for each item. You will be notified when either the item you requested is ready for pick-up, there was a problem with the request, or the request could not be filled.

How do I submit a request?
APL patrons, or individuals with a library card at either Abilene Christian University, Hardin Simmons University, or McMurry University, request materials using the WorldCat database available in the E-resources page. Please call 676-6025 for assistance.

What will it cost?
There is generally no charge for this service. Many libraries lend books or provide photocopies free of charge, while others may assess a fee. If a lending library charges a fee, you will be asked to pay those charges.

Where do I pick the materials up?
Pick up your requests at either of APL's two locations depending on where you indicated the request should be sent.

How long can I keep the material?
Books can usually be checked out for two weeks. Photocopies of journal articles are usually yours to keep.

Where do I return the materials?
Return materials to the APL location where you picked them up. Please do not return ILL materials in the book drop.