Interlibrary Loan
The Robert Crown Law Library maintains agreements with libraries around the globe to obtain books, articles, documents, and other materials not available at Stanford’s campus libraries. This service is available for Stanford Law School faculty, students and staff. If the research materials you need cannot be obtained at Stanford, submit a request.
Interlibrary Loan Request Form
Please contact our Interlibrary Loan Specialist with any questions you may have at smoss@stanford.edu or 650 723.1932.
Interlibrary Loan FAQs
What is interlibrary loan?
Interlibrary loan (ILL) is our service used to obtain journal articles and borrow books that are not available
from the Stanford University Libraries. We obtain materials from libraries across the nation, and if
necessary, around the world.
Who may submit an interlibrary loan request?
We process interlibrary loan requests only for Stanford faculty, law students and staff.
What can and cannot be requested?
As a matter of policy, the law library does not interlibrary loan any item that can be located in any of the libraries on campus or online (via the Internet, Westlaw, Lexis-Nexis, etc.). If an item is not on the shelf at our library or Stanford campus libraries please have the staff search for it before submitting an ILL request. If it is in use you must recall it. Rare books, reference material, videotapes and films are difficult to
borrow. Be aware that whole issues of periodicals typically do not circulate but we can obtain photocopies
of journal articles. If you feel a title should be acquired by our library please let us know as well.
Who provides materials to us?
The law library maintains relationships with various libraries around the globe. Requests are usually made online through our specialized network. The lending library processes the requests and sends the requested item.
How long does it take to obtain interlibrary loan items?
We strive to process requests within a day of receipt and try to obtain materials from the fastest, most reliable source. It can be as quick as one day or as long as three to four weeks to receive the material you need - this does depend on the library that owns the material we are seeking. On average we receive journal articles in 1-4 working days. Books usually arrive within a week.
How long can we keep interlibrary loan materials?
The loan period for books and microforms is 3-4 weeks. Photocopies are for your retention.
Is there a charge for interlibrary loans?
We try as much as possible to obtain materials from our partner libraries who do not charge us. We absorb charges up to $25.00 per loan for students. Charges for materials received for student journal cite checking will be passed on to the journal.
How do I request interlibrary loan items?
Interlibrary loan forms are available online at: http://www.stanford.edu/group/law/library/illform/illr.fb or in the reference staff office. You are encouraged to speak to our reference desk staff for assistance.