The Connecticut Interlibrary Loan System

Borrowing Materials from Other Libraries

The Goodwin Library supports the instructional and research needs of Goodwin’s students, faculty and staff by obtaining materials which are not available at the Goodwin library. Goodwin College belongs to an interlibrary service of over 400 libraries in the state. The library will make every effort to obtain the materials requested.

How to Use the Interlibrary Borrowing Service

Check Goodwin’s online catalog to make sure we do not own the material you want. We will not process requests for materials which the Goodwin Library owns.  If you need help using our catalogs, ask in library staff member for help.
Reference staff can help you with these, or suggest other sources as appropriate. If you cannot find the item you need in the suggested sources, provide us with a photocopy of your reference (typically the title page and the page including the citation).

Submitting Requests

Goodwin Faculty, Students, and Staff may request items found through the Goodwin catalog by using Request feature on that system. Periodical articles may also be requested.
Requests may be made in person at the library where staff can advise you about your request.

How Long Does It Take?

On the average, allow two weeks from the date of request. If the material is readily available in a nearby library, it may be available sooner.

Loan Periods

The lending library sets the loan period which may range from two to four weeks. Materials are subject to recall by the lending library at any time. Please return recalled items immediately. Overdue materials jeopardize our ability to borrow. Materials cannot be borrowed for class reserve, exhibit, or other long-term use.

Materials Generally Not Available Through Interlibrary Loan

Some libraries have categories of materials which are not available on Interlibrary Loan. Examples are: rare, fragile, or unique materials; audiovisual material; some dissertations; whole volumes of recent periodicals; and items in special collections or on reserve.

Loss/Damage

You are financially responsible for any damage to or loss of interlibrary materials, from the time you pick them up until you return them to the library. You are also responsible for damage caused by photocopying, even if no specific photocopy restrictions are noted on the material. Should any damage occur, report it to the library. Do not attempt to repair it yourself.