Interlibrary Loan

Fresno County Public Library will stop all Interlibrary Loan services for Audio-Visual materials effective October 1, 2010. This means we will no longer borrow or loan CDs, DVDs, Books on Tape, Books on CD, or other audio or visual materials as of October 1. This change in policy is regrettably necessary due to the heavy costs in staff time and money. We apologize for any inconvenience, and we will continue to strive to meet our customers’ requests for print and microfilm materials.

Telephone: (559) 488-3195 (press 5)

  1. Can I get something that is not owned by the Fresno County Public Library or another library of the San Joaquin Valley Library System?
    We can try to get these items for you from other libraries around the country, and occasionally from other countries. This service is called Interlibrary Loan (ILL) and is available to Fresno County Public Library customers whose library record is free of fees and overdues.
  2. Is there a charge for this service?
    Only if the lending library charges us. We always try to request materials from libraries that don't charge fees. We borrow from a library that charges only if you authorize us to do so. Fees are due and payable when you pick up the materials. At present we notify you by mail when an item comes in and charge first class postage, currently 37 cents, per notice.
  3. How do I make a request?
    By telephone or in person at the Central branch Reference Desk, 559-488-3195 (press 5), or at any Fresno County Public Library branch.
  4. How long will it take to receive my request?
    Please allow a minimum of three weeks. It may not take that long but faster service cannot be guaranteed. We need to find a library that owns the item, is willing to lend it, and where it is not checked out to another borrower.
  5. How do I get my material?
    It will be made available for pick up at the Fresno County Public Library location you indicated on your request form. You'll be notified by mail when your material is in.
  6. How long can I keep an Interlibrary Loan item?
    The lending library determines the length of the loan. Some libraries allow a renewal. If renewal isn't possible, we can try to borrow the item from another library. Some libraries may restrict the use of their material to one of our library branches.
  7. White Wrapper!
    Every Interlibrary Loan item wears a white identifying wrapper. The wrapper helps us both - you and the Library - to keep track of these special items. To ensure safe return of the material, PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE THE WRAPPER!