Interlibrary Loan
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service that libraries use to share materials with each other. When a patron needs a book, article, or other resource that their local library doesn't have, the library can borrow it from another library through ILL. This service helps libraries expand their available resources without having to buy everything themselves. It's like a library-to-library lending network. You might also hear it called "document delivery," "resource sharing," or "library resource sharing." This is a core service in most academic, public, and special libraries.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Interlibrary Loan department processing over 500 requests monthly
Streamlined ILL workflow reducing request fulfillment time by 40%
Coordinated Interlibrary Loan services between 12 regional library branches
Implemented new Document Delivery and ILL tracking system
Typical job title: "Interlibrary Loan Librarians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Interlibrary Loan Librarians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where your ILL department is experiencing significant budget cuts?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss strategies like prioritizing essential requests, exploring cost-sharing partnerships with other libraries, implementing efficient workflows, and using statistical data to demonstrate service value.
Q: How would you improve ILL services across a multi-branch library system?
Expected Answer: Should discuss standardizing procedures, training staff, implementing tracking systems, establishing clear communication channels, and measuring service performance across locations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What systems have you used for managing ILL requests, and how do you ensure request accuracy?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common ILL management systems, describe verification processes, and explain how they maintain quality control in processing requests.
Q: How do you handle rush requests and prioritize workflows?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for managing urgent requests while maintaining regular workflow, including communication with patrons and partner libraries.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the basic process for handling an interlibrary loan request?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the steps from receiving a patron request through verifying citations, locating materials, and processing loans or returns.
Q: How do you maintain patron privacy in ILL transactions?
Expected Answer: Should understand basic privacy principles and confidentiality in handling patron information and borrowed materials.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic ILL request processing
- Understanding of library catalog systems
- Customer service skills
- Basic copyright knowledge
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced ILL system management
- Staff training and supervision
- Problem-solving complex requests
- Statistical reporting
Senior (5+ years)
- Department management
- Budget oversight
- Policy development
- Inter-institution partnership building
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with ILL management systems
- Poor attention to detail in tracking requests
- Lack of customer service experience
- No knowledge of copyright laws affecting resource sharing
