Interlibrary Loan

Interlibrary loan is used to request books and articles that are not available in the CLEVNET catalog, but that can be located at other libraries worldwide. Cleveland Public Library cardholders can search for books using the library’s portal to the WorldCat database.

If a desired item located in WorldCat database, use the ‘request this item’ button on the record to request the item.

Though we try for our patrons, sometimes requests for materials are unfilled. Successful requests can take several weeks, can often have shorter loan periods that are mandated by other libraries, and can have very high overdue and lost fees. 

Patrons can have up to five open requests at a time. Audio-visual materials, textbooks, and books published within the past year cannot be requested. Please complete the Suggest an Item Form to suggest newer items for purchase.

ILL can also request copies from other libraries. There is a $5.00 minimum fee (sometimes there are additional fees). All copy requests must conform to the copyright laws of the United States. 

Interlibrary Loan is only available to patrons who are residents of the City of Cleveland, have a valid CLEVNET library card, and can pick-up/borrow/return materials to any Cleveland Public Library location. For more information, call (216) 623-2901 or email interlibrary.loan1@cpl.org.