Interlibrary Loan

What is Interlibrary Loan (ILL)?

Interlibrary Loan is the library service through which current students, faculty and staff from either Webster University or Eden Theological Seminary may request research materials which are not available from either the Webster-Eden Library system or another MOBIUS library.

How long does it take for materials to arrive?

Periodical articles (copies): 5 to 7 days excluding weekends and holidays
Books: Usually 10 days excluding weekends and holidays
If we are unable to fill your request we will notify you via the e-mail you used when you first logged into your Interlibrary Loan/Document Delivery account (ILLiad) . You may also log into your ILL/DocDel account (ILLiad) at any time in order to check on the status of your request(s).

What can be borrowed through ILL?

Printed materials (i.e. you may not borrow non-print media like CDs/DVDs).
Articles from periodicals which the Webster-Eden Library System does not own or have access to through an online database. We cannot borrow complete issues of a periodical.
- Search the Journal/Magazine/Newspaper list to see a list of periodicals that are owned or can be accessed online.
Books not owned by Eden or Webster or any other MOBIUS library.
- Search the MOBIUS catalog now. If the book is available on MOBIUS, use the "Request this Item" link to initiate your request.
Titles which the library owns but are currently unavailable.
Books published after 1870.

What types of materials are difficult if not impossible to borrow?

Reference or rare books
Conference and working papers
Dissertations
Educational tests

What are the steps for pick up and return of materials?

Requests should include an acceptance of copyright restrictions.
We will notify you via the e-mail you used when you first logged into you Interlibrary Loan/Document Delivery account (ILLiad) when each item is available OR if we are unable to fill your request.
You may also log into your ILL/DocDel account (ILLiad) at any time in order to check on the status of your request(s).
You may call the Service Desk at 314-968-6952 to inquire if a book which you have requested has arrived.
Print materials are picked up, and books returned, at the 1st floor Service Desk.
You must show us a piece of valid, current, photo identification, such as your Webster issued ID card or a driver's license, before we will check anything out to you.
If you fail to return ILL books on time, you may lose your interlibrary loan privileges.
Patrons are responsible for replacment costs and fines for any ILL materials

How long can I keep a book and can I renew it?

The lending library determines the lending period for books and if they may be renewed.
You may request a renewal through your ILL/DocDel account (ILLiad) or you may call the Service Desk at 314-968-6952. Please make sure to submit your renewal request at least three days prior to the due date.
The lending library may or may not grant a renewal.