Interlibrary Loans - FAQ
These materials are available through the Interlibrary Loan Service:
- Books from other lending libraries in Nova Scotia, across Canada, and the USA
- Archival materials on microform
- Articles from magazines and journals
- Talking books for persons who are visually impared
- National Film Board of Canada (NFB) videos and DVDs
- Videos and DVDs from the Special Needs Parenting Collection
These materials are not available through the Interlibrary Loan Service:
- Books published within the last three (3) to six (6) months
- Materials published outside of North America
- Magazines and journals
- Books on tape or CD
- Music CDs
- All DVDs and videos except those in the NFB and Special Needs collections
- eBooks
May I request materials from outside of Canada?
You may request materials from the United States; however, the borrowing costs charged by the lending library are typically quite high, with limited viewing time. Due to high costs, materials located outside of North American libraries are not available through the Interlibrary Loan Service.
Where may I go for assistance with my Interlibrary Loan request?
Staff at your local branch may help you with your request. You may also contact the Reference Department at 490-5710 or email your question to Ask a Librarian.
How long does it take for an Interlibrary Loan request to be filled?
When on the shelf, materials located in Nova Scotian libraries may arrive within one week. Materials arriving from across Canada may take a minimum of two to three weeks.
How can I check on the status of my request?
Call the Interlibrary Loans department at 490-5821 or
How will I know my materials have arrived?
You will receive a phone call or email from Halifax Public Libraries that your items are waiting for pick-up at your branch’s designated holds location. Materials must be picked up within seven (7) business days.
What does it cost to make an Interlibrary Loan request?
Some lending libraries charge for interlibrary loans and these fees are passed along to the borrower. Photocopy requests of magazines and newspaper articles typically cost between $5-10. Borrowing costs must be paid when your request is picked up.
How long may I keep the materials?
Loan periods are determined by the lending library and are typically between two (2) to three (3) weeks.
May I renew my Interlibrary loan materials?
Some lending libraries do allow extensions on Interlibrary loans. For renewals, please contact the Interlibrary Loan department five (5) business days before the due date.
What are the overdue charges for late Interlibrary Loan materials?
Overdue charges are $2 per day per item to a maximum of $10 per item.
What happens when an Interlibrary loan book is lost or damaged?
Borrowers agree to assume financial responsibility for damaged or lost materials. You will be notified about charges as determined by the lending library. Some libraries charge a flat rate which may be more than the original cost of the material.
Where do I return my Interlibrary Loan materials?
You may return your materials to any branch of the Halifax Public Libraries.
NOTE: the beige Interlibrary Loan band must not be removed from the item. If the Interlibrary Loan band is removed, the item cannot be identified or checked in on your customer account.
