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Request Materials

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Request Materials

How to request items from the BC Libraries

You can request items that support your research and academic needs. This includes items owned by the library that are not currently available, items in your preferred format (e.g. you can request a print book if we have the ebook), and items not owned by the Boston College Libraries. This is free for BC students, faculty, and staff.

Can I request items that are available at the BC Libraries?

Sign-in with your BC login and use the Request Book link in the library catalog.

  • Students, Faculty, and Staff may request available items for pickup at any library location (except Burns and Weston Geophysics), including the library where the item is permanently located.
  • Requested items can be picked up at the selected library's service desk.
  • If the pickup location is the same location where the items is permanently located, turnaround time is 24 hours.
  • If the pickup location is different from the location where the item is permanently located, turnaround time is 3-5 business days.
  • Alumni, BC retirees and Guests should make requests at any BC library's service desk. 

How long does it take?

 

Item Usually available in
Library materials to be picked up at the library where the item is permanently located 24 hours
Library materials to be picked up at a library that is different from the one where the item is permanently located 3-5 business days

Library materials stored offsite

1-2 days
Library materials that are not available through the BC Libraries 7-14 days
Articles 1-3 days
Book chapters (up to 20% of book) 1-3 days
Theses and dissertations 1-5 days
Tests & measures (FAQ) not available
Harvard Business School cases (FAQ) not available

How do I request an item?

Item What to do
Library materials that are currently available Find the item in the catalog, Sign-in, and use Request Book / Request Book Chapter button
Library materials that are currently unavailable

Find the item in the catalog, and click Request Book to request via Interlibrary loan or

find the item in WorldCat and use the Request button

Materials that are not available in the BC Libraries

Request via Interlibrary loan  or 

find the item in WorldCat and use the Request button

How long can items be used and how do I check the status?

Item How long Status
BC owned items see Loan Periods My catalog account
Books from other libraries usually 60 days, but can vary Interlibrary loan account
Articles / book chapters available for download for 30 days Interlibrary loan account
Other items varies by library Interlibrary loan account

 

Interlibrary Loan Account

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Interlibrary loan policies

Borrowing

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