What is the new interlibrary loan request system?
The SIL is planning to employ a new software solution to handle interlibrary loan. The software called, ILLiad, is created and supported by OCLC, a widely known and longstanding library vendor.
Why is SIL changing to a web-only request form?
The SIL handles 5000-10,000 interlibrary loan transactions each year. The use of a web form will contribute to a streamlined process making it easier to track requests and to compile statistics on usage and other borrowing and lending activity. It will also allow library users to request material from their offices, homes or anywhere there is a PC and Internet connection.
When will this change take effect?
April 30, 2007
What is ILLiad?
Illiad is the electronic system Smithsonian Institution Libraries (SIL) will begin using on April 30 to process Interlibrary Loan (ILL) requests. Users may see this term appear on some web forms. ILLiad requires the creation of a personal account for each library user.
How is this system different from the current request form?
The new interlibrary loan system will allow users to track their requests after they have been entered and to see what books they currently have that have come from outside libraries. Users can also view old requests to identify previously-reviewed materials. Users will need to enter personal and contact data only once with the new system.
Who can use ILLiad?
All currently registered SIL patrons are eligible to use ILLiad for requesting work related research materials not held by SIL.
What can I use ILLiad to do?
- Submit ILL requests
- Check status of ILL requests
- Request renewals of loaned materials
- View a history of all requests placed by a user
How do I register?
Users will create an account by entering brief contact information and creating a username and password.
Most users will register here
Library users at the Cooper-Hewitt must register here
Library users at STRI must register here
Why do I need a user name and password to use ILLiad?
Your username and password allows you secure access to information about your interlibrary loan requests. It also allows you to edit your personal contact information.
Can I use my Smithsonian user name and password?
You can use any user name and password you like. It may be easier to remember this combination that you use nearly every day. However the SI network and ILLiad are not synchronized in any way and password changes made to one system will not be reflected in the other.
What if I want an assistant to place requests for me?
You can share your username and password with those who will act in your behalf. Remember however that you are responsible for all materials borrowed on your behalf and charged out to you.
What if I forget my password?
A link on the user logon page will allow users to receive via e-mail a new password which they can later change.
Can I still use the paper request forms?
No. All interlibrary loan requests will be received through ILLiad. If you need assistance in using the web browser to access ILLiad, ask for help at your Smithsonian branch library.
Am I limited on the amount of requests I can place or the types of materials I can request?
Users are limited to requesting 5 items per day.
Will I be able to see all my requests when I look at my request history?
Yes. You will see all current and past requests which you have placed.
What about overdue items?
The due date for items will be printed on the accompanying book strap. The item must be returned on or before the due date. If you request a renewal of a book it must be placed before the due date.
What do the ILLiad status messages mean?
When reviewing requests, a status message is included to track the progress of the item. These are generated by the system and not customized by SIL staff. For an explanation of a particular status, please refer to this document
What is electronic delivery?
Many libraries ship photocopies of articles in electronic format. Whenever possible the ILL office will provide electronic delivery of these articles in PDF format. You will receive an e-mail when an article has been placed in your ILLiad account for electronic retrieval.
What if I receive an incomplete or unreadable copy?
You may call 633-1245 or e-mail us at ill@si.edu and tell us which pages were cut off, omitted, blurry, etc. or if the entire article was unreadable. It is helpful if you provide us with the Transaction Number (TN) of your request when you contact us.
Who should I contact if I have a problem or question about the new system?
Interlibrary Loan Office at (202) 633-1245 or email ill@si.edu |
