We can help you borrow books, articles, or other materials that Stanford does not have (so be sure to check SearchWorks or consult with a librarian first!). Check to make sure that you're eligible to use interlibrary services and that the materials are eligible to be borrowed.
What can I borrow?
You can get most published materials through Interlibrary Borrowing.
You cannot use Interlibrary Borrowing to request materials already owned by Stanford Libraries. This includes items that are:
- Checked out (instead, submit a recall request in the SearchWorks record for that item)
- Missing from the shelf (instead, request a missing item search at the Circulation Desk)
- Items from Stanford's Libraries for delivery to you when you are away from campus
Materials generally not available through Interlibrary Borrowing include:
- Textbooks
- Entire issues of periodicals (due to copyright law)
- Reference materials
- Rare books
- Books published before 1800
Dissertations
- Some libraries will lend their dissertations via Interlibrary Borrowing.
- You can purchase dissertations using the Dissertation Express Service.
- Ask us to purchase a dissertation for the library.
Policy
Interlibrary Borrowing can help you obtain materials that are unavailable at Stanford, provided they support the teaching, learning, research, or other University-related work of Stanford faculty, students, staff, or visiting scholars. For personal items, please use your public library.