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Interlibrary Loan (ILL) 

Can't Find It? We Can Help.

Looking for a book, audiobook, DVD, or other item that isn't available through McAllen Public Library or the Hidalgo County Library System? Interlibrary Loan (ILL) allows eligible library cardholders to request materials from participating libraries across Texas.

Please check the MPL and HCLS catalogs before requesting materials through ILL. Requests for items owned by MPL won't be processed unless items requested are more than 30 days overdue or lost on the circulation system.


REQUEST AN ITEM

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Click the link:
ILL Requests

VIEW ILL GUIDE

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Step-by-Step Guide

LOCATION

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Main Library
4001 N. 23rd St. 
McAllen, TX 78504 

CONTACT US

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Email: interlibraryloan@mcallen.net 
Phone: (956) 681-3000 


How It Works

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1. Search First

Check the MPL and HCLS catalogs to make sure the item is not already available locally. Requests for items owned by MPL will not be processed unless the item is lost or overdue by more than 30 days.

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2. Submit Request

Log into ShareIt and submit an Interlibrary Loan request. A valid MPL card, PIN, and email address are required.

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3. We Locate the Item

Library staff will search participating Texas libraries for an available copy.

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4. Pick Up & Enjoy

You'll be notified when your item arrives and is ready for pickup.


All ILL services are governed by the American Library Association Interlibrary Loan Code, national and regional agreements, and the Copyright Law (PL 94-553).




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FAQs

What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) allows MPL cardholders to borrow books, articles, and other materials from participating libraries when they're not available in our collection.


How do I request an item?

Patrons may have up to 6 active ILL requests at a time. A valid MPL card, library PIN, and email address are required to submit requests through ShareIt or with staff assistance.


What information do I need?

Please provide as much information as possible, such as the title, author, publication date, or article details, to help us locate the item.


Why can't I submit my request?

Interlibrary Loan requests cannot be submitted if your account has overdue materials, fines of $3 or more, lost items, or outdated contact information.


Is there a fee?

Most requests are free, though some lending libraries may charge for copies or special materials. Additional fees may apply for overdue, lost, or damaged items.


How long does it take?

Most requests arrive within two weeks to two months. You'll be notified by email when your item is ready for pickup or if we're unable to fulfill your request.


How long can I borrow items?

Most Interlibrary Loan items may be borrowed for about two weeks. Loan periods, renewals, and any restrictions are set by the lending library and may vary by item.


Where do I return items?

Return all ILL materials to the Circulation Desk at the location where you picked them up. Do not place in a book drop.


Can I renew an ILL item?

Renewals are determined by the lending library and are not guaranteed. Renewal requests must be made at least 3 days before due date. Overdue items, DVDs, & CDs cannot be renewed.


What materials are difficult to obtain?

Some items may not be available through Interlibrary Loan, including newly published books, reference materials, rare items, audiovisual materials, and certain genealogy or research resources.

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