Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

Expanding Access to Academic Resources

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) connects you to materials beyond TSU's library collection. Students, faculty, and researchers can request books, articles, and other resources from libraries across the country. We also share TSU-owned materials with other institutions, to support broader academic access and collaboration.

Submit an ILL request

ILL Borrowing FAQs

How to Request ILL Materials
Books: Email the title, author, and call number. Pickup is by appointment on Fridays, or we can ship to non-local users (address confirmation required). Please use Library Mail rate when returning books.
Journal Articles: Email journal name, article title, author(s), date, and page numbers. Delivery is electronic.

What may we borrow for you?

Most books and articles can be borrowed, but the following are often unavailable: rare or fragile books, multi-volume sets, reference books, media, theses/dissertations, bound/single-issue periodicals, unpublished reports, software, and textbooks.

What should I do before making a request?

Search the library catalog to confirm TSU doesn’t already own the item. If it’s checked out, check with Circulation staff. For journals, use our Catalog: Articles. Gather complete citation details before requesting.

How do I request?

Submit your request online (one form per item). Include full bibliographic details: author, title, journal, volume, pages, and publication date. If you need help, visit the Circulation Desk or email charlean.sheard@tsu.edu.

How long does it take?

Most local items arrive in 5–10 business days; out-of-state or hard-to-find items may take a month. Start requests early.

When is it due?

Due dates vary by lending library—each book may have a different date. Renewals are granted at their discretion (request at least four days before due). No renewals by phone.

How will I be notified?

ILL staff will email you when your materials are ready for pickup at the Circulation Desk (first floor). Return items by the due date.

Is there a charge?

Most requests are free; if a lending library charges, you’ll be notified in advance.

For Libraries: ILL Lending Policies

Requests should be sent to:
Texas Southern University,

Library Learning Center,

Interlibrary Loan,

3100 Cleburne, Houston, TX 77004
Phone: (713) 313-1082 | Fax: (713) 313-1080
OCLC Symbol: TXT | NUC: TxHTSU
We accept OCLC, ALA, email, and FAX requests (no phone requests).

Loan period: 30 days; renewals: 2 weeks
Not available for loan: Media, Heartman Collection, reference/government documents, dissertations/theses, journals.

Library Learning Center’s ILL area complies with ALA ILL Guidelines, AMIGOS Resource Sharing, Title 17 US Code, and TexShare ILL Policy.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

Expanding Access to Academic Resources

ILL Borrowing FAQs

For Libraries: ILL Lending Policies

Welcome Desk

Circulation, ILL & Course Reserve

Research & Instructional Support

Special Collections