Other libraries

Borrowing from other libraries

Although our libraries have many items in the collection, you might be looking for something that we don't have. If the item belongs to another library, we can request it from that library on your behalf. This is called an inter-library loan.

How to request an inter-library loan

Search our catalogue first to make sure our Libraries don't hold the item you are seeking. You can do this on our Library catalogue page.

If we do not own the item you are looking for, you can search the holdings of other libraries in Australia on the Library Link Victoria website. Please note that you cannot request items via Library Link Victoria at this time, please email ill@merri-bek.vic.gov.au for inter-library loan enquiries or call us on 9389 8600.

We do not request books that have been published within the last 12 months.

We do not borrow or lend DVDs, CDs, games, CD-ROMs, electronic materials and non-circulating items.

Fees for inter-library loans

A fee of $3.30 is charged for the supply of all inter-library loans.

Some libraries charge a fee of $30.30 for supplying items. If you make a request that will have this charge applied, we will ask your permission before going ahead with the request.

You must pay the fee when you collect the item. If you choose not to collect the item the fee must still be paid.

Loan conditions

The loan period for inter-library loans is 6 weeks and items cannot be renewed.

All items are accompanied by a book strap. The strap is not to be removed and is essential for the return of your inter-library loan. There is a replacement fee of $6 for each lost strap.

Email ill@merri-bek.vic.gov.au for inter-library loan enquiries or call us on 9389 8600.

State and National Libraries

You can search the State Library Victoria’s catalogue on the State Library Victoria website.

You can also access the National Library of Australia’s catalogue on the National Library of Australia website.

Another option available to you is to search Australian state, public and university library catalogues on the Trove website.