5. Restrictions On Materials Requested Through Interlibrary

Loan

While the goal of the Texas Group is to promote resource sharing, Texas Group members should restrict requests for certain types of materials. These restrictions are limited to categories of materials very likely to be unavailable for loan. Keep in mind that it is always the right of the lending library to decide whether or not to loan an item.

The AMIGOS Interlibrary Loan Code states that “resources sharing does not relieve any library of the responsibility for providing collections necessary for its primary clientele..." Texas Group members, therefore, should not use interlibrary loan as a substitute for collection development. If several patrons need an item, or request it frequently, it should be considered for purchase for your collection.

Do not request the following categories of materials because libraries do not circulate them:

• Best sellers and other currently popular titles such as those that are the subject of current movies or television programs.
• Rare books, manuscripts and books published before 1800.
  

Request as Copies

Not Loans

In addition to the categories listed above, certain other materials do not circulate
in most libraries. However, by requesting that copies of specific sections be
sent when titles are non-circulating, it may be possible to obtain information from these materials:

• Reference books. When requesting an item that is likely to be a reference book, request a copy of the table of contents or index if the item is non-circulating. This may allow your patron to pinpoint the pages or section needed., and a follow-up request may be placed.
• Genealogy. See chapter on GENEALOGY.
  

The following categories of materials may be requested, but some libraries may
not lend them via interlibrary loan. It is a good idea to explain to your
patron when they place their request that it may not be filled due to the small number of libraries that lend them.

• Audio-visual and other non-print materials
• New titles