Rush Requests
Availability:
- This is available only on a case-by-case basis.
- We limit RUSH requests because they slow down our normal processing and place a burden on our lending libraries.
- If you need RUSH service you must contact Silvia Dominguez at the Library ILL Office prior to submitting your RUSH request. If you ask for RUSH service in the Additional Information area of the Interlibrary Loan form without contacting Sylvia, your request will be processed as a normal request.
Delivery speed and cost:
- RUSH requests are processed within 24 hours and shipped per your specifications.
- Our ILL Office will review all charges with you prior to processing your request. ILL RUSH charges will vary and are determined by the lending library. You will be charged for any additional shipping charges above the usual postal rates.
- We will make every effort to meet your deadline, but we cannot guarantee delivery within a specific time frame. The lending library makes the final decision as to the speed in which they send your material.
Factors that affect delivery speed:
- Accuracy and completeness of your citation.
- How far away the lending library is located.
- How many libraries we have to contact to fill the request. Most of the requests are sent electronically to potential lenders. If the requested item is not available at the first library to which the request has been sent, that request will be automatically forwarded to another library. If the first group of potential lenders is not able to supply the requested item, the request will be sent out again to a new group of potential lenders until all the lenders have been contacted or the need-by date has been reached, whichever comes first.
- Whether the requested item is a book or photocopy. Photocopies are usually sent electronically or by first class mail, while books are sent by the slower, and less expensive, Book Rate. Most materials from Florida libraries are sent via in-state courier.
- Whether the lending library can be contacted electronically.
- The type of material requested. Requests for very old items (pre-1900), materials of a rare/esoteric nature and very current or popular items are usually harder to obtain. It can take longer to locate a library willing to lend these materials.
