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University Library

LibGuides

Online & Distance Learners

This guide provides resources for students enrolled in online programs and courses at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Flowchart

Wondering how you can borrow and access Library materials such as books, articles, and book chapters as an online student? The visual flowcharts below can help guide you through the process. These flowcharts summarize information presented in greater detail on subsequent pages in this library guide. A written summary of the flowcharts is provided later on this page for screen readers and individuals who prefer text-based information.

 

Flowchart providing online students with instructions on how to obtain a book they need from the Library.          Flowchart providing online students with instructions on how to obtain a book chapter or an article they need from the Library.

Written Summary

If you need a book...

First, check the catalog and determine if the Library owns the book. If the book is in the catalog, determine the format: is it an e-book or a physical, print book? You can access e-books online with your NetID. If it is a print book, you can request that the Library mail it to your house. You pay return shipping fees.

If the Library does not own the book, you can check with your local public library to see if they have it or if they can obtain it for you through interlibrary loan. Alternatively, if you live in or near Illinois, you can check the I-Share catalog to see if another I-Share institution owns the book. If the book is in the I-Share catalog, request it for pick-up at a convenient I-Share member institution (you can return it there too). If not, check with your local public library.

You must obtain an i-Card to borrow print books.

If you need an article or book chapter...

First, determine if the Library owns the article or the book you need a chapter from. Then, determine the format. If you need a chapter from a book that is available as an e-book, or an article that the Library provides electronic access to, you can access the item immediately online. If the article or book chapter is only available from a print journal/periodical or book, you can request a scan via our Document Delivery service.

If the Library does not have access to the item either online or in print, you can request a scan of the chapter or article you need via Interlibrary Loan.

You can access all these services and resources with just your NetID and password- no i-Card is required.