Interlibrary Loan

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Interlibrary Loan (ILL) service has been temporarily suspended for print materials. However, online requests for ebooks and photocopies of articles are available.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service which allows Trenton Free Public Library patrons to borrow materials from other libraries. Millions of books and other materials are within reach for our patrons. Interlibrary Loan is based on a network of cooperative agreements that provide access to books (foreign language and large print editions), and journal articles in the collections throughout New Jersey.

You may request Interlibrary Loan service when the item or periodical article you need is not available at Trenton Free Public Library. Patrons are limited to a total of 3 interlibrary loan requests/checkouts at a time.

Your library card must be in good standing to submit an interlibrary loan request.

Interlibrary Loan orders take from 2-4 weeks, sometimes longer, so please be sure to plan ahead. Photocopy requests are usually filled within a week. We cannot guarantee delivery within a specific period of time. You will be notified by phone as soon as the material arrives. Items may be picked up at the Circulation Desk.

The loan period for books is established by the lending library. Most items circulate for 2-3 weeks. The due date is indicated on the white label or white band on the front cover.

Request for Purchase

All Trenton Free Public Library patrons are encouraged to suggest additions to the Libraries’ collection. We consider each recommendation with care, ensuring it fits the scope of our collection and serves the mission of the library. Requests are evaluated by a librarian based on the collection development policy and the availability of funds. We will make every effort to accommodate your request, but we cannot guarantee we will be able to purchase the materials you request. 

Due to the number of purchase suggestions we receive, we cannot notify you if/when the materials have been purchased. Please check the library catalog or call the library to place an item on hold after it has been purchased. 

Forms are available at both the reference and circulation desks. Please fill out the form below as completely as possible.