How do I request an Interlibrary Loan?

• Step 1 - Check our Library Catalogue to see if the item is available.
• Step 2 - If Greater Victoria Public Library does not own the item; check the Outlook Online catalogue to see if it is available at another library in B.C. To place a request, follow the instructions listed below under Using Outlook Online.
• Step 3 - If you do not find the item in the Outlook Online catalogue, or to submit a request for microfilm or photocopies please complete our Interlibrary Loan Online Request Form. Please be sure to submit your request with accurate information. If you are unsure of the title, please discuss it with information staff before submitting your request.

Using Outlook Online (to search libraries in BC)

Search the Outlook Online catalogue.

If you find more than one record for the title you want, choose the one with the most locations. This number is in brackets following Locations.

Click on the title to select the record you want, and then click on Request this Item in the top right corner of the screen.

An interlibrary loan request form will open up. Enter your information in the following fields. We do not require your address.

PATRON IDENTIFIER:    Enter the first 3 letters of your last name and the last 4 digits of your library card number (Example: SMI 2468)

PATRON’S FIRST NAME:  Enter your first name

CREATE A PASSWORD:    Enter your GVPL password, or the last 4 digits of your phone number.

LIBRARY CARD NUMBER:    Enter your GVPL card number in full, no spaces.

PHONE & E-MAIL:   Enter your phone number (10 digits) and e-mail address.

PICK-UP LOCATION:   Choose the branch where you would like to pick up your Interlibrary Loan.

Do not adjust the Need By date.

When you have filled in the above fields, click on the Submit button.

You can check the status of any request you have placed using Outlook Online by clicking on Patron Menu and selecting ILL Request Tracking. Use the same Patron Identifier and First Name (separated by a comma) and password as when the request was submitted. (Example: SMI 2468, First Name). Your browser will have to be set to allow pop-ups.