From 1 July 2023, the State Library of WA and Public Libraries are changing the way they fulfil user requests for items not held in their own collection. Instead of using the inter-library loans service as the first option, libraries will utilise more environmentally sustainable and cost-efficient ways of accessing items for library users.
Users should not experience any tangible difference to the fulfilment of their requests.
Instead of seeking to borrow an item via inter-library loan, public libraries will now access items not in their own collection in the following ways:
Accessing the item electronically via e-Resources
- For example, this may be an e-Book or e-Audiobook through BorrowBox, Libby, hoopla or Kanopy.
- If the item is not available electronically, a request to purchase the e-Book may be considered by the library.
If electronic format is not available or appropriate for the user, then libraries may consider purchasing a print copy.
- The item could then form part of the library’s collection and can be enjoyed by other library users.
If neither of these options are available or suitable, then the item can be requested via inter-library loan.
- For example, items that are out of print or expensive to purchase may be borrowed from other libraries via inter-library loan.
These changes are being made to provide a more sustainable library service to the WA community.
We appreciate library customers may have questions or feedback about these changes. These can be directed in the first instance to the Carnarvon Public Library, or alternatively feedback can be passed to the SLWA by email info@slwa.wa.gov.au
Inter-library loan conditions may still apply as outlined in the 2020 Inter-library loans Code of Conduct.
Requests for items can be made in person when visiting the library or via email.