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ills returning | Goldfields Library Corporation

Great news! Inter-library loans are back!  inter-library loans are back!

We have been working hard to find a solution since this valued service was suspended across the state last year. The peak body for public libraries in Victoria (Public Libraries Victoria) has been considering how to balance the rising costs of logistics, couriers and other operational services with retaining access for members to the vast network of items we collectively hold – one of the largest in Australia.

We are pleased to announce that inter-library loans have recommenced. This includes items from participating Libraries Victoria services and academic/specialist libraries across Victoria.

Some changes have been made to ensure this service can operate sustainably into the future. They are:

  • To reduce environmental and logistical costs, deliveries between library services will now occur weekly. Consolidating materials and moving them more efficiently allows us to continue offering our members the widest range of resources. This may lead to a slightly longer wait, but ensures we can keep the service as low-cost as possible.
  • A limit of 20 holds will apply at any time. We understand this service is invaluable for many members, and to ensure we can keep offering this option, we must ensure it is used appropriately. Moving books involves carbon miles and costs for both library services involved. It’s up to all of us to ensure we responsibly use this service.
  • Borrowing from within the Libraries Victoria network will incur a $2 charge. However, if you want to request an item from outside the network (from a special/academic library), charges begin at $40.30 per item.
  • New release titles are not available via an inter-library loan. If the new item you’re looking for isn’t in our catalogue, please ask us to purchase a copy on your behalf.  See more information about suggesting a purchase here.

What factors have led to these changes to the inter-library loan program?

It is an unfortunate reality that increasing costs have impacted many aspects of our service, and sharing items between libraries is one of the most resource-heavy services we provide.

Victorian public libraries have worked together to identify ways to reduce the costs of delivering inter-library loans. We have streamlined services, identified the most cost-effective methods of moving items across the state, and considered the most equitable ways to ensure all libraries receive value for money.

Weighing the needs of you, our members, and our responsibility to provide the best value service to our community, we believe that a restructured program is preferable to the permanent suspension of this valuable service. 

How you can help

  • Please collect your inter-library loans when ordered, or cancel if they are no longer required. 
  • Please endeavour to return items to the library you borrowed them from; this can help reduce transportation costs.
  • If you have multiple library memberships, check catalogues on each to see if any hold the item you're after. Inter-library loan conditions also vary from service to service.

For further information, visit our Inter-Library loans webpage, or talk to a staff member next time you’re in.

Read more about inter-library loans