Step One: UIUC Online Library Catalog
There are two ways to search the UIUC Library catalog. Both offer the same content but the method of searching and presentation of results varies.
Getting the actual book: When you locate your item you have two choices.
Print books
You can request the item and pick it up at any of the departmental libraries. Or, you can retrieve the book yourself from either the main stacks or the departmental library where the book is located. If you choose this option, make sure you jot down the location and call number of the item.
Electronic Books
Access will depend on the publisher. In some case you will be able to download full books via PDF. In others you might be able only to view the book online. In all cases the Library follow the publisher's requirements.
Step Two: I-Share
Once you have verified that the book you are looking for is either not located in the UIUC catalog or all copies are checked out, you may order it through Primo Library Catalog and selecting "All I-share Libraries." Items typically arrive within 5-10 days and you will receive an email when the item is available for pick up.
Step Three: Interlibrary Loan
If the item is not available in the UIUC catalog or through I-Share, then your next stop will be Interlibrary Loan and Document Delivery. First, keep your full citation handy -- you'll need it. Second, login to the ILLiad server using your NetID and password. From the ILLiad main menu, select "Request a Book." Be sure to fill out as much of the form as possible, including the source of your citation. This will ensure that ILL can place your request in a timely manner. You'll be notified by email when your item is ready to be picked up.
WorldCat -You can search WorldCat to find books on your topic, which might not be in the UIUC nor the I-share catalog. Once you find a title of interest, you can order it through Interlibrary Loan
Some useful subject headings/key words to use when looking for books:
Queer theory
Gay and lesbian studies
Homosexuality in literature
Homosexuality and literature
Homosexuality and art
Gays in/and literature
Gays' writings - History and criticism
Lesbianism/Lesbians in literature
Using these phrases as key words works as well, but if you want more narrow results the subject headings are best. Searching through subject headings will give you materials that are specifically about that topic. Keep in mind that these headings are pre-selected, so using both broad and specific terms will help you discover different subjects you might want to search.
Queer Interventions is a book series written with the purpose to publish theoretical work that intersects with other theories through the publication of monographs, collections of essays by scholars, and empirical work. It is a good introduction to the world of queer theory in relation to other theories and ideas.