InterLibrary Loan
Can't find something in the Library's collection?
Then extend your reach through the Interlibrary Loan Service.
- Main Library
- 101 West Flagler St.
- Phone 305‑375‑4068
With a valid library card patrons can request books, articles and audiovisual materials from a vast network of libraries at no cost to them. We always try to find other libraries that lend their items for free; however, this is not always possible and loan charges may apply. Patrons will be notified through their online account if any charges apply. We will not proceed with the request until the patron notifies us that they accept responsibility for any charges.
Patrons with reciprocal library cards and non‑verified addresses are ineligible for the service.
In order to comply with the American Library Association's National Interlibrary Loan Code, items published within the past 12 months, reference works owned by the Library System, and whole issues of magazines or newspapers cannot be requested.
Placing a Request
To place an InterLibrary Loan request, contact the reference desk of your local branch. Requests must include complete bibliographic information, e.g., author, title and publication date. For an article request, the periodical title, volume, number, date, and pages are needed.
Fees
There is no fee charged by the Miami‑Dade Public Library System for each filled InterLibrary Loan request; however, other lending libraries may charge a fee for the use of their materials. The patron is responsible for these fees. Patrons will be notified through their online accounts if any charges apply. The Library will not proceed with the request until the patron contacts the InterLibrary Loan office and agrees to accept responsibility for the charges, which will be added to the patron’s account and must be paid online or in person before the account's expiration date.
Payment for lost or overdue materials is the sole responsibility of the patron. Overdue InterLibrary Loan materials and financial charges will result in a suspension of borrowing privileges in this library system.
Notification & Status
Items will be sent to the indicated pick‑up branch, where the patron will be notified of their arrival. Items not picked up by the due date will be sent back to the InterLibrary Loan office for their return to the lending library. Patrons will also be informed when requested materials are not available.
Material Renew
Patrons may request renewals by phone at 305‑375‑4068 two days before the due date. Renewal requests may or may not be granted by the lending library. Items that cannot be renewed must be returned immediately.
Photocopies
Photocopies are not checked out and do not have a due date. Photocopies will be mailed to the patron's address. If an additional loan charge applies (see “Fees”), these charges will be added to the patron’s account and must be paid online or in person before the account’s annual expiration date.
Borrower's Responsibilities
Materials must be returned by the indicated due date. Patrons must follow any restrictions placed by the lending library, e.g., materials are for in library use only, cannot be photocopied, etc. The patron agrees to take proper care of the materials and assumes responsibilities for replacement or repair costs if materials are lost or damaged. Materials cannot be left in bookdrops. Borrowers must return ILL items in person to one of the public service desks at any branch.