Using the Library

Online students who cannot visit the library in person can still access most of the UCA Library’s physical resources such as books by submitting a scan or loan request through the online interlibrary loan system. 

Should I request a scan or a loan of a library item?

For loan requests, the item will be mailed to you, and delivery may take 3-7 days. You will be responsible for mailing the item back to the Torreyson Library in time for it to arrive by the due date. You will be provided with a pre-paid and addressed return envelope. Some library resources are not available through this mail service, including textbooks, laptops, archival books, etc. 

If you have a shorter time frame, consider making a scan request for a chapter or section of the resource you need. A scan of the resource is generally received within 24 hours during the regular work week. Unfortunately, due to copyright laws, only around 10% of a print book can be scanned and sent. Once you’ve received a scan of 10% of a particular print book, you cannot request additional scans from that item. If you are unsure what part of the resource you need, you can first request a scan of the table of contents. For directions on submitting a scan request see: How do I submit a request for a scan of a UCA Library Resource?

How do I submit a loan request?

1. Navigate to the library homepage.
2. Use the search box on the library homepage and enter the title of the library resource you would like to have mailed to you. Placing quotation marks around the title often assists with searching.
3. Click on the resource title to open the detailed record.
4. Within the detailed record near the bottom of the screen, click the Other Libraries Worldwide button which will open a panel from the right-hand side of the screen.
5. On the slide-out panel at the top right, find and click on the Request via Interlibrary Loan button. 
6. You may be prompted to log in with your MyUCA credentials if you have not already done so. Once logged in, the resource information will auto-populate into the request form.
7. From the dropdown menu, select the Request Type of LOAN. In the Patron Comments box add a note indicating you are an online student and will need the physical item shipped. Also indicate whether you are willing to accept an ebook instead of a print book if available (if no note is provided, we will provide the ebook).   
8. Click SUBMIT REQUEST at the bottom of the screen. 

What Happens Next?

When we confirm the item is available, you will receive an email with the subject UCA Library Item Available for Shipping-Requesting Shipping Address and Phone Number. Please reply to the email to confirm if you need the item shipped to you and provide a current mailing address and phone number. You will receive an email when the item has been shipped to your address. The email and package will include return shipping instructions and a prepaid addressed return envelope. You will need to go to a USPS location and ask a staff member to mail the prepaid return package for you.

Please note: Interlibrary loan items may also be mailed to online students. The online request process is similar to requesting a UCA library item. These items require a longer lead time and on average, are received in 10-16 days.