How long will it take a physical ILL to arrive?
The arrival time of an ILL item can vary greatly from a few days to a few weeks, as it will depend on where we source your item from. This means that we cannot guarantee that your request will arrive before a specific date. However, if you do not receive a response within two weeks please contact us on ill@rhul.ac.uk. You will receive an email notification once your request arrives.
If an item arrives after you require it, please let us know as soon as possible so we can return the item and you do not incur any charges. Unfortunately, we are unable to cancel requests once placed with a supplier.
How do I collect my physical ILL?
For physical Items you will receive an email notification once your request arrives. Physical requests can be picked up from the reception desk at the entrance to the library whenever the helpdesk is open.
How long can I keep a physical ILL book for?
The initial loan period for a physical ILL item is three weeks. However, it may be shorter than this if the item you requested is recalled.
If you need an item for longer, you may renew it, subject to recall. It is free to renew the first three times, with a charge of £5 for subsequent renewals. Renewals can be requested by emailing the ILL team on ill@rhul.ac.uk.
Please be aware that some loans will be 'For Use in the Library Only'. The loan period for these items is the same as other ILL items; however, you cannot remove them from Royal Holloway Library. Your confirmation email should let you know if your item will be restricted to the library. Guidance on using ‘For Use in the Library Only' items can be found further down this page.
How do I return my physical ILL?
Physical ILL books can be returned to the helpdesk at the library at anytime it is open. Please ensure that all paperwork with your ILL is returned with your item to help us identify which library it came from.
Please do not return ILL books through the returns windows or post due to the possibility that the book may become lost.
How do I use a ‘For a Use in the Library Only’ item?
Some ILL items will be 'For Use in the Library Only', which means they cannot be removed from the library.
You will need to collect the item from the Library Helpdesk in the Davison Building. Please bring your College card with you and return the item to the Library Helpdesk before you leave. You must do this each time you wish to use it.
Please let us know each time you return the item whether you still need to consult the item or if it can be sent back to the lending library.
The usual copyright restrictions regarding printed items also apply to Library Only items; however, some Library Only items cannot be photocopied, and this will be stated clearly within the item.
How much does a physical ILL cost?
ILL requests are currently free for all users, but physical ILLs are subject to charges in the following circumstances: -
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Late returns
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£5
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Non-collection
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£10
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Lost item
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Variable; can exceed £100 if the item is of high value
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4th renewal onwards
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£5 per request
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Non-collection charges are applied as requests cost the library at least £10, regardless of whether they are collected or not.
If you are unable to collect an item, please contact ill@rhul.ac.uk as soon as possible.
We will send reminder emails and warning notices about non-collection charges, but these are sent as a courtesy only and the non-receipt of reminder notices does not invalidate the fine.