Why do I need an I-card?
Your I-card allows you to borrow material from the U of I or any I-Share member library. On the Urbana campus, your I-card gives you entry to the Main Library Bookstacks. An I-card is also necessary to request material through Distance Library Services. Click here to request an I-card.
Who can use the Distance Library Services?
Distance Library Services provides information services and resources to students and faculty engaged in off-campus and distance education courses offered through the University of Illinois Division of Academic Outreach. Students enrolled in classes that meet locally (in the Urbana-Champaign area) or who live in the U-C area will be directed to the appropriate departmental library for their library needs.
How do I use my NetID and password to access Library resources and services?
The U of I Library set up a proxy server system which enables off-campus users to access the Library's restricted electronic resources. If you click on a link that requires access via the proxy server, you will be prompted for your University NetID and password. If you have forgotten your NetID, you can check your entry in the online campus phonebook. If you have forgotten your password, or want to change your current password, you can do so from the NetID Password Manager. For assistance, contact Campus Information Technologies and Educational Services (CITES). Please view NetID and password information. Engineering students should contact the Office of Continuing Engineering Education, 1-800-252-1360 ext. 6 for assistance.
Why am I sometimes unable to connect to an online resource?
Some resources only allow a limited number of users to connect simultaneously. There may also be net congestion, depending on the time of day you are trying to access the resource. Databases can sometimes go down due to technical problems. If your connection is initially unsuccessful, try again at a later time. Most importantly, make sure you are using the correct NetID and password! (see previous question) You can also check Library System and Services Alerts and CITES' Status of Services to see what library and/or campus systems problems have been reported.
Will Distance Library Services do my research for me?
And spoil all your fun? Never! We can, however, assist you with research strategies and suggest the appropriate databases to search. An on-campus library instruction session can also be scheduled.
How do I request material from Distance Library Services? Is there a charge for this service?
Please refer to our Request Materials page for information and a link to the request form. There is no charge for this service.
Can I directly request material via the online catalog, or through interlibrary loan services?
Illinois residents can place their own requests for materials via the I-Share catalog and have material delivered to an I-Share member library for pick-up. Do not use the AOL browser when searching the online catalog and also make sure that your web browser is JavaScript enabled. Click here for instructions on making online requests via the I-Share catalog. For books unavailable via the online catalog the Distance Library Services will place an interlibrary loan request for students. Refer to our Interlibrary Loan page for information on placing your own ILL article requests.
How can I keep track of the material I have borrowed?
At the online catalog My Account page, you can access your library account to track and cancel requests, view pick-up notifications, renew material, and view fines.
How do I renew material?
Material can be renewed online at My Account. You may also renew material by calling the Library Telephone Center toll-free at (866) 262-1510. Students with an international address, who experience problems renewing material online, should contact us.
How am I notified that material is overdue?
Overdue notices are sent to the student's email address. Avoid fines by returning or renewing material on time!
How do I return material?
For Illinois residents, non-interlibrary loan material may be returned in-person to any I-Share member library. You can also return material directly to us via an insured carrier (Fedex, UPS, U.S. mail). Material borrowed by students during on-campus visits can also be returned to us; we'll make sure it gets back to the lending library. Interlibrary loan material should only be returned directly to us.
