Interlibrary Loan
Related Services and Partners
Address Labels: For all labels, the “from” field must be higher on the package than the “To:” field (ideally, the top left corner). Otherwise, machines may automatically read the “from” field and route it back to you.
Shipping costs: USPS Library Mail is the least expensive way to mail ILLs. Library Mail is based solely on the weight of the package. As of January 21, 2024, rates for Library Mail are $3.92 for the first pound and $.70 for each additional pound up to 70 pounds. View the USPS Library Mail Rates here.
Tracking: USPS Library Mail comes with free tracking. If you transact at a USPS Retail Counter, the tracking number will be on the receipt. We highly recommend making note of the tracking number for your ILL returns. USPS keeps tracking numbers in their system for 120 days.
Mailing AV: It is best practice to mail audiovisual items in a box, as boxes better protect delicate cases and discs from being damaged by USPS sorting machines. The borrowing library assumes responsibility for items lost or damaged in transit.
Free Matter for the Blind: Large print books and sound recordings can be mailed for free with USPS if they are "mailed by or for the use of blind or other persons who cannot read or use conventionally printed materials due to a physical handicap." More information on eligibility can be found on the USPS FAQ page. Be sure to put "Free Matter for the Blind" in the upper right hand corner where the postage usually goes. More information about how to package Free Matter for the Blind here.
When sending library material to Canada, look for the “duty free” box to indicate this is library material and should not be charged duty to the recipient. Make sure to print out and attach the following text:
Resource Sharing Team
ill@masslibsystem.libanswers.com (best method for email)
866-627-7228 select option #4
Laura Bogart, Resource Sharing Assistant
laura@masslibsystem.org x318
Kathryn Bowen, Resource Sharing Assistant
kathryn@masslibsystem.org x321
Heidi Flynn, Resource Sharing Assistant
heidi@masslibsystem.org, x303
Vincent Nguyen, Resource Sharing Assistant
vincent@masslibsystem.org x316
Alison DeMers, Resource Sharing Librarian
alison@masslibsystem.org x317
Scott Kehoe, Library Resources Director
scott@masslibsystem.org x308
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