Preferred Method

If you are on the UCSF campus network or using VPN to access a catalog or other type of database, a UC-eLink button will be embedded into each item description. By clicking on the UC-eLink button and choosing the “Request It” option, you will be able to request the item.

Some books and non-print materials may not be loaned because they are fragile, one-of-a-kind, or non-circulating. Similarly, extremely fragile journals may not be photocopied.

Online Request Forms

Fill out the appropriate form when you are unable to access the UC-elink request system. If the UCSF-owned copy is missing from the library, note this in the Author field.

• Journal Article Request Form
• Books Request Form
• Book Chapter Request Form
  

Articles and Chapters

Most articles and book chapters are received within 4 working days. If you choose web delivery, the lending campus will email you a web address where you can access your (PDF format) article using Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you choose to receive a paper copy the requested document will be mailed to the primary address listed in your Library Borrower Account.

Books and Other Materials

Most books are received within 4-7 days at the Parnassus Campus Library. You will receive an email notice when your item has arrived. Parnassus Campus users may pick up their borrowed materials at the Circulation Desk. For alternate pick-up locations (currently Laurel Heights, SF General Hospital, and Mission Bay) reply to your email notice with your preferred pick up location, and the item will be sent there. You will receive a subsequent email when the item arrives at your preferred pick up location.

For the status of a particular request, after 5 working days, Email ILB staff or call (415) 476-8272.

Loan periods

Generally materials may be kept for 2-4 weeks. To request renewal of interlibrary materials, call (415) 476-8272 or email Interlibrary Borrows staff. Staff will attempt to renew the item and will get back to you regarding any new due date.

Note: All ILB materials are subject to immediate recall by the lending library at any time.

Returning Materials

Return books and materials to any UCSF Library. If materials are not returned by the due date your UCSF Library privileges will be blocked (no check-outs, no renewals) and a bill for replacement will be issued. You are responsible for damage to or loss of materials from the time they are picked up until the time they are returned.

Fees

There are no fees for obtaining items from other UC campuses. Items obtained outside the UC system average $15 per article or book loan. Library staff will contact you for authorization to extend the search if the item is not available from a UC Library. You must submit an authorization with each request: include credit card number (information is confidential, applied only to item requested, and not saved) or UC department recharge number, and maximum you are willing to pay for each request. You will be billed only the fees incurred and will not be charged if the item cannot be obtained.