Interlibrary Loan

Can’t find the title you want in our Shared Catalog? Try MeLCat for Interlibrary Loan.mellogo

If you are unable to find what you are searching for in the online catalog, you may search for it on MeLCat, Michigan’s state wide catalog.

PLACING A REQUEST
To get started, search the MeLCat catalog.  Once you locate a title you want to borrow, click on “Get this from MeLCat”.  In order to request an item, it must show available at the owning library.  Requests cannot be placed on titles that are currently checked out.

Enter your account information: select your home library from the drop-down list.  You must choose the library from which you have your card.  Enter your name and library card number and “Submit”.  All requests are delivered directly to your home library.

PICKING UP REQUESTS
It usually takes two to three weeks for items to be shipped, processed and ready for pick up.  Once your request is available, you will be notified by email, text or automated phone call depending on how your library account is set up.  MeLCat items must be checked out using the same card number the request was placed on.  Be sure to bring that library card with you when you come to pick up items.

ITEM INFORMATION
Most MeLCat items circulate for three weeks and can be renewed one time for an additional three weeks.  To renew your item, call the library at 248-349-3020 and ask for a renewal.  Be sure to have your library card number with you when you call.

MeLCat libraries will not lend audio/visual items such as Blu-ray, DVDs, CDs and audio books, magazines or newspapers, rare or fragile materials or reference books.  Newly published books may be in high demand and difficult to borrow.

You can check on the status of your requests at any time by logging into “MY MELCAT” from the MeLCat home page.

PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU SHOULD NOT USE MELCAT TO REQUEST A TITLE THAT IS AVAILABLE THROUGH OUR SHARED SYSTEM CATALOG.  It is always faster and more efficient to request an item through our online catalog.

Questions about interlibrary loan through MeLCat?  Call the library at 248-349-3020