NIU Libraries Search Help: Order Books and Physical Items

Need a book or physical item? Here's how to find and request it, starting with the fastest options. 

Search NIU Libraries (fastest option)

1. Search for the item title NIU Libraries. If you don't find it, try NIU and Beyond (below). 
2. Sign In with your NIU credentials at the top right corner of the NIU Libraries Search. 
3. If the item is available at NIU, you have two options:

• Pick it up in person at the library using the Call Number listed at the end of the Available line (ex. QL 737.C214 2004)
• Under the heading Get It, Click Request from Library button and fill out the request form and all required fields marked with an * to have it brought to the Checkout Desk or another library in Illinois (participating libraries) for pickup. You'll get an email when it's ready. Note that you need to be signed in with your NIU credentials to be able to request items. 

Search NIU and Beyond (second fastest option)

If the item isn’t available from NIU Libraries, search NIU and Beyond to borrow it from a participating library in Illinois for free. 

1. Search for the title of the item. If you don't find it, try WorldCat (below). 
2. Sign In with your NIU credentials at the top right corner of the NIU Libraries Search. 
3. If available, under How to Get It, click Request from I-Share. Fill out the request form and all required fields marked with an * to have it shipped to a nearby Illinois library. See the list of participating libraries. 

Search WorldCat for materials (slowest option)

If you can't find the item in NIU Libraries or NIU and Beyond, search WorldCat. 

1. Search for the title of the item.
2. If available, under How To Get It, click Request from Interlibrary Loan. Fill in the request form and Submit it to have it shipped to NIU's DeKalb campus. Note: WorldCat items can only be delivered to NIU's DeKalb campus and may have shorter borrowing periods.

You will receive an email when your library materials are ready for pick-up.

Founders Library Checkout Desk Pickup

• Pick up items during regular business hours. 
• Bring your NIU OneCard or photo ID. 

Founders Library Locker Pickup

• Available 6am-10pm, 7 days a week
• Your email will include a locker number and PIN. 
• Access lockers via the 71North entrance (lower-level gravel area, left of main entrance). 
• Enter the 4-digit PIN, turn the handle, and retrieve your items. Please don't leave anything behind. 

NIU Music Library Pickup

• Check the Music Library Website for hours. 
• Be sure to bring your NIU OneCard or other photo ID.

NIU Naperville and Rockford

• Contact the Branch campus for hours
  • Naperville: 815-752-8990 
  • Rockford: 815-753-8788 
• Bring your NIU OneCard for pickup 

Participating Illinois Libraries (I-Share)

• Check with the library for operating hours
• Bring your NIU OneCard for pickup