How to Request an Item

 

This guide explains how to use the library's Item Request Form. The guide is arranged in a "question and answer" format. If you have any outstanding questions, please don't hesitate to ask a librarian! 

What is the Item Request Form? 

The Item Request Form allows Davidson students to request books, articles, inter-library loans, and other research materials. Once you submit a request, librarians will search all venues to find your material. 

 

What resources can I request with the Item Request Form?

Students can use the form to request:

• Books owned by the Davidson library 
  • Including lost, checked-out, and circulating books
• Books not owned by the Davidson library (inter-library loans)
• Book chapters (some items are only partially visible through Davidson's databases)
• Scholarly Articles
• Journal Articles
• Magazine Articles
• Scientific Research
• Microfilm 
• And much more! 

Note: Any item can be requested in any format. The library will prioritize format-specific requests for students with documented disabilities and accommodations. 

 

Can I request E-Books?

Yes! However, you will receive a print copy of the E-Book you request. Due to "Digital Rights Management," E-Books cannot be widely distributed or shared between libraries.  

 

Is there anything I can't request? 

You can only request circulating items with the Item Request Form. For example, you can't request:

• Archival Materials
• Reference Books
• Items Held in "Special Collections' 

 

Who can use the Item Request Form? 

Only current Davidson students can access the form. The "Item Request Form" is available to all students studying abroad; just make sure to request digital copies of items! 

 

How long does it take to receive a requested item? 

If you're requesting a physical item, and/or an item that must be inter-library loaned, it may take up to a week. However, even ILLs (inter-library loans) typically arrive quicker than this. If you're requesting a digital item, it may only take a couple days. 

 

Where do I pick up requested items?

If you've requested a physical book, you can retrieve it at the Library's front desk. Give your name to the employee at the desk; they'll get your book for you. If you've requested an ebook (or another digital item), it will be emailed to you. 

 

How long can I use a requested item? 

Usage time varies depending on the item you're requesting. If you're requesting an item the library already has, you can usually check it out for a semester. If you're requesting an item that must be inter-library loaned, you will have at least a week with it. Your ILL's specific "due date" will be emailed to you, and attached to the item when you receive it. Additionally, Some ILLs can be renewed in the Item Request Portal. 

 

What if my request gets declined? 

Most "declined requests" have insufficient information. Make sure you've provided the librarians with enough information to locate your desired item. If you're looking for a book or article, make sure to include the ISBN or ISSN.  If you've provided sufficient information and your request still gets denied, you can email Joe Gutekanst at joguntekast@davidson.edu. Alternatively, you can meet with a research librarian to find a similar available source. 

 

Is the "Item Request Form" the same thing as the "Inter-Library Loan Form (ILLiad)?" 

Yes! However, the library has now decided to funnel all item requests through this form.