What is InterLibrary Loan?

InterLibrary Loan or ILL is a means of obtaining materials from libraries outside of CUNY.

What is ILLiad?

ILLiad is a program in which you may log in, place requests for materials, and track them, and also download items you've requested that come in a digital format. If you have never used it before you will need to create an account. You do this by logging into ILLiad using your NetID and password, and filling out the webform with the required information.

Who can use InterLibrary Loan?

All Hunter faculty, students, and staff have ILL access.

How long does an ILL order take?

This will vary depending on such factors as the type of material, the availability of the particular item, the speed of the lender, and the speed of whichever delivery service is involved. In the case of a journal article it might be hours or days; in the case of a book it might be days or weeks. Be sure to request your material as far ahead of time as possible. By all means contact us at illhc@hunter.cuny.edu if it seems to be taking too long.

How do I log in to ILLiad?

You go to the login page and use your NetID and password, the same thing you use to log in to your Hunter email. If there are issues with your login you should contact either Systems or the ILL specialist.

Do I have to pay for an ILL request?

Hunter Library absorbs the cost of ILL, so the service is free. However, if the patron loses a book obtained via ILL, the patron is responsible for the cost of reimbursing the lending library.

Which books may be requested through ILL?

ILL will not request a book that is available at Hunter College Libraries or in any CUNY library. Go to https://library.hunter.cuny.edu/ and use OneSearch to make sure. If the book is available at another CUNY library, you should use the CLICS service instead.

Which articles may be requested through ILL?

ILL will not request an article that is available in Hunter's library databases. Go to https://library.hunter.cuny.edu/ and use the "Journals" feature to see if the article is available at Hunter. If you can't find it in either hard copy or digital form, then proceed to ILLiad.

When and where should I pick up my requested material?

You will receive an automatic email notification when the item arrives.

Books and other physical loans will be available for pick-up at the Circulation/Reserve Desk on the third floor of the Hunter Main Library. Show your Hunter ID to claim your item.

Most articles and book chapters are digital loans and will be downloadable as PDFs from your ILLiad account. If one does arrive as hard copy, it will be available at the Circulation/Reserve Desk. Articles do not need to be returned.

How long can I keep requested materials?

Check the due date on the book band. Renewal is at the discretion of the lender; if you need more time please contact ILL a few days before the due date. Articles need not be returned.