OPL Interlibrary Loans

Interlibrary Loans

As a holder of an Oakville Public Library card you have access to the treasure troves of knowledge held in libraries and archives across North America.

Every year we borrow thousands of items from sources far and wide for the benefit of Oakville residents. If there is a particular book, article, or microform you would like to see that we do not have, speak to the reference staff at any one of our branches.

What can be borrowed?

• Books
• Microfilm (i.e. from National or Provincial Archives)
• Photocopies of magazine or journal articles

What materials can NOT be borrowed?

• Recent publications, current best sellers
• Video or audio cassettes, CDs and DVDs and multimedia kits
• Reference material (i.e. directories, encyclopedias, etc.)
• Textbooks and school course materials

Is there a fee for this service?

Most public or government libraries in Canada will interloan material free of charge. If your request can be filled from one of these libraries there will be no charge to you. If the lending Library charges a fee to lend its material, this charge will be passed on to you. Please note that we do not order material from these libraries without your express permission. The charges are added to your account at the Library and must be paid upon receipt of the book.

How do I request an Interlibrary Loan?

Talk to the reference staff at any one of our five branches (Click here to view Hours & Locations).

How long will it take?

It varies quite a bit. It usually takes between 2 - 4 weeks. If the book is available for loan from a Halton area Library it may take only 7 - 8 days.

May I renew an Interlibrary Loan?

Please note that interlibrary loan material is not part of our regular circulating collection and cannot be handled as such. Loan periods and renewals are at the discretion of the lending library. Items cannot be renewed via our online catalogue or on our Overdues & Renewals phone line.