The sharing of materials is an important part of a library's operation. In order for the lending process to work as smoothly as possible there are some matters that need to be considered.

Interlibrary Loan Policies and Procedures

Each DOCLINE member has a profile. The library's lending policies and procedures are part of the profile.  The profile should address how the lending process will be handled including methods of filling, charges, circulation, and any other pertinent information. The profile should be reviewed on a regular basis and kept up to date. If your library uses other means of document delivery in addition to DOCLINE, your ILL policies and procedures should cover those as well.

Processing a Request

When filling a request there are several things to keep in mind.

• Requests should be received and processed as soon as possible.
• All filled requests should include a copy of the request form.
• Requests status should not be updated until they are actually filled.
• All mailed items should be packaged appropriately including instructions for returning the item.
• If your library receives a request that you do not hold or requested by a means you do not support, review your profile and holdings to verify they are correct and up to date.
• If you must reject a request, select the appropriate rejection reason and reject it in a timely manner.

Managing Lending Files

Although not required by law, many libraries maintain a file of received requests. The file is typically held for three years plus the current year. The information can be kept in electronic format or in hard copy. The information is helpful in invoicing, collection development, and tracking other aspects of lending.

Source/Additional Information

DOCLINE Manual
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/docline/doclinehelp/

FAQ: DOCLINE - Lend
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/services/faqdocline.html#lend

National Interlibrary Loan Code for the United States. American Library Association.
http://www.ala.org/ala/rusa/protools/referenceguide/interlibrary.cfm