Temporary Changes to Statewide Inter-Library Loans (ILL)
**This does not affect borrowing books from the 26 libraries in our LION network. Those loans will continue as usual. Over 90% of books borrowed by our library patrons come from LION libraries.
Interlibrary Loans (ILL) made through the statewide ReQuest network of the Connecticut State Library are suspended beginning May 1. Technical and financial adjustment on the state level are necessitating these changes. A new system should be in place by the fall.
Q: Will I still be able to get items from other libraries?
A: Yes. The LION online catalog is still available to patrons by visiting www.plnl.org. You can usually place holds on these items by yourself, through our library’s catalog. Please ask library staff if you need help.
Q: Will I be able to find items in libraries outside the LION system?
A: Yes. You can locate books in individual libraries in the state by consulting the website catalog of each individual library.
Q: Will I be able to request items from libraries outside the LION system?
A: Yes. New London patrons will be able to request items outside of the LION system. You need to contact library staff to place these holds. Patrons may only have a total of 2 items in process and/or on loan at any one time. Processing times are going to be longer than in the past. Non-residents need to make these requests at their home town library.
Q: I need books for my book club. Can I still get them from the library?
A: Yes. There are two options for book clubs at this time:
- OPTION 1: The Connecticut State Library has a list of book sets that are available for libraries to borrow. You can view the list by visiting www.plnl.org/bookclubsets and either call the library to reserve a set or email plnlill@plnl.org.
- OPTION 2: The LION system online catalog can be used by individual members to put books on hold. Unfortunately, there may not be enough books available in LION to fulfill your request, as LION only has a limited number of titles of books.