Libraries around the world use Interlibrary Loan (ILL) to share materials from their collections with other libraries. KPL has participated in this system both by borrowing materials for KPL patrons and by loaning materials to many other libraries. Operating an interlibrary loan service is very expensive; a study by the Association of Research Libraries found the average cost to be $18.35 per loan.

Interlibrary Loan Suspended

Michigan State Aid to Libraries has funded ILL through library cooperatives, a support system for libraries like intermediate school districts for schools. Because of Michigan’s fiscal crisis, Governor Granholm has decided to freeze State Aid payments to libraries for the remainder of the fiscal year. Without these funds, KPL must immediately suspend interlibrary loan service.

Borrow from Libraries Statewide Through MeLCat

Although ILL is unavailable, KPL in-district patrons may borrow materials from 150+ libraries across the state through MeL, the Michigan Electronic Library.  MeLCat, the statewide library catalog and materials sharing system, offers millions of books, CDs, DVDs, musical scores, manuscripts, and other materials.

It’s easy to use MeLCat. Click the MeLCat logo on KPL’s home page. Search the MeL catalog for the item you want, then click the “Get this for me!” button. You’ll be notified when the item arrives at KPL. All MeLCat reserves must be checked out at the Central Library.

Questions? Please ask for help at any KPL location or call 553-7801 during the Central Library’s open hours.

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