While we have fantastic collections here at Oshawa Public Libraries, from time to time we might not own the items you are looking for. We may still be able to help you find these items through our Interlibrary Loan Service (ILL).
December 16, 2024 — Please note that due to the Canada Post strike, interlibrary loan requests have been suspended until January 2, 2025. New requests cannot be made until January 2. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Using interlibrary loan
- Requests can take 3 to 8 weeks to fill, depending on item availability.
- Loan periods and renewals are determined by the lending library.
- We can't guarantee an item will be available by a certain date.
- To process your request, your library card must be current and in good standing (i.e. no outstanding charges or overdue materials). We will notify you when the item arrives. Items must be picked up within 7 days of notification.
Material available through ILL include:
- books (large print and regular)
- talking books (CD audiobooks)
- microfilm (please call or order these in person)
Please note that the following are not eligible for ILL:
- Items already owned by Oshawa Public Libraries; please check our Library catalogue
- eBooks or eAudiobooks (please check cloudLibrary, opens a new window or hoopla, opens a new window)
- DVDs or Blu-rays
- Music CDs
- Video games
- Magazines or journals (please check cloudLibrary NewsStand, opens a new window or Flipster, opens a new window)
Note: If an item was published less than one year ago and it is not in OPL's collection, please submit a purchase request for consideration.
Ordering
*Please note that interlibrary loan requests have been temporarily suspended due to the Canada Post strike.
There are several ways to order an Interlibrary Loan:
- In person at any branch
- Email illo@oshawalibrary.on.ca
- Call (905) 579-6111, ext. 5235
- Online (see form below)
Renewals
Unless an Interlibrary Loan item is labelled as non-renewable, you may be able to renew your item by calling (905) 579-6111, ext. 5235, or by emailing illo@oshawalibrary.on.ca. Requests for renewals should be made five (5) days before the due date so we may contact the lending library.
Overdue fines
- Fines for overdue Interlibrary Loan items are $1.00 per day for renewable items, and $2.00 per day for non-renewable items. These fines are non-negotiable.
- Lost or damaged fees are determined by the loaning library.
Status updates
Due to the volume of requests, we regret we are unable to notify customers if an item cannot be obtained. For updates on your requests, you can contact Interlibrary Loan staff at (905) 579-6111, ext. 5235, or at illo@oshawalibrary.on.ca. You will need to provide your library card number and the title of the requested item.
