Law Library Policies and Procedures

Interlibrary Loan Services for the College of Law

The law library's interlibrary loan services are limited to students, faculty, and staff of the College of Law.
NIU students and faculty not associated with the College of Law should use the University Libraries' Information Delivery Service (IDS).

For articles:

1. Make sure the journal or law review isn't available at NIU:
   • Search for the journal (by title or ISSN) in HuskieSearch.
   • Ensure the issue you need isn't already available online, or in paper or microfiche in one of NIU's libraries.
      
2. If the article you want is not available at NIU, fill out the Law Library Interlibrary Loan Request form.
   • Most articles can be delivered electronically within two or three business days, but if materials will need to be shipped, allow at least 10 business days for them to arrive. 
   • The article will be sent to you via email.

For books:

1. Use HuskieSearch to see if the book is at Founders Library or another NIU Library. 
   • If it is at Founders or another NIU library, you can request that the book be delivered to the Law Library or to Founders Library.
      
2. If the book isn't at NIU: while in HuskieSearch, repeat your search using the All I-Share Libraries option. You'll then be able to request items from over 90 Illinois academic and special libraries. See the HuskieSearch guide if you need help.
   • When you find the book you want, log in using your NIU ID (Z-ID and password) to request it.
   • I-Share loans will generally arrive within 5 business days, and you will receive an email when it is ready for pickup.
   • Loans for I-Share books are for 28 days, with up to 3 renewals allowed (6 renewals for faculty and staff). 
      
3. If the book isn't available through I-Share: fill out the Law Library Interlibrary Loan Request form.
   • Please allow at least 10 business days for items to arrive; the exact length of time will vary.
   • You'll be notified via email when books are ready to be picked up at the Law Library.

Please note:

• The law library may refer users to other libraries for on-site use instead of attempting to request materials via interlibrary loan if the material is needed immediately, a large number of titles is required, and/or a subject area is to be researched without reference to particular titles.

For more information:

• Email lawlib@niu.edu or call the Law Library at 815-753-0507

-- last updated May 14, 2024

The policies and procedures of the David C. Shapiro Memorial Law Library apply to all law library patrons: faculty, students, staff, and visitors. The law library reserves the right to update or modify these policies at any time and without prior notice.