MSU Libraries Interlibrary Services Reaches 1.5M Request Milestone
This month, Interlibrary, Document Delivery, and Distance Services received their 1.5 millionth request in the InterLibrary Loan internet accessible database (ILLiad) system. Built in 1999 by Atlas Systems, the ILLiad system is a request management software designed for interlibrary loans. Michigan State University Libraries implemented ILLiad around 2004 and has since utilized it more expansively in order to manage requests for scanning, delivery of library materials to users and purchase-on-demand service. In addition to patron-driven requests, the ILLiad system also manages all interlibrary requests the MSU Libraries receives from institutions worldwide. The MSU Libraries has consistently been in the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC) list of top 25 lending institutions globally for the last decade, so around half of those requests are filled for non-MSU patrons.
ILLiad has undergone many improvements over the last few decades, but its core functionality has remained the same. While it continues to be platform agnostic, it has built-in transaction handling for the OCLC’s interlibrary loan (ILL) system as well as several other prominent ILL services, including RAPID and Docline. In addition to ILL requesting, the “Get This” button in the library catalog links directly to ILLiad request forms, making requesting a breeze for our users.
Questions or feedback about ILLiad are welcome and available by contacting lib.ill@msu.edu.