For items available for checkout but not located at your library, the fastest way to get them is to order them using the "Request" link. These requests take approximately 2-3 business days to be delivered. You can choose which library to have them delivered to, if another library is more convenient.

You will need to log in before you will be able to request items. Click on Locations & Availability to make the request.

For these items, you'll need to use Interlibrary Loan. For books, delivery can take up to a month, so it's wise to start your research early enough to allow for delivery. Articles take approximately 1-2 weeks.

Once you've identified what you need, fill out the appropriate Interlibrary Loan form for what you're requesting. You'll receive an email when the item is ready for pick up at the Circulation Desk.

If URI doesn't own the Journal (either electronically, in print or even in microfilm) then you still can access the article you need.

1. If URI Doesn't own the Journal, Magazine or Newspaper, but Another RI Library Does

• If another library in Rhode Island owns the print or online journal, you may be able to go to that library to get the article.  Check the library's website for hours and access information
• If the journal is a print copy, you can make copies of the article as needed.
• If you cannot get to another library, follow the instructions for Interlibrary Loan below.

2. If the Journal, Magazine or Newspaper isn't Owned by any of the Libraries

• If you conduct a search for a journal, magazine or newspaper and no results come up that match your resource, first check to make sure everything is spelled correctly. The catalog won't pull up the resource if there is a spelling error.
• Check your citation again. Are you typing the title of the journal, magazine or newspaper? 
  • In this case the resource might not be owned by any local libraries. You would then request the article through Interlibrary Loan.
• The Interlibrary Loan forms can be accessed from the library homepage.
• Choose the correct form (hint: Journal Article includes magazines and newspapers).
• Fill in all of the information from your citation as thoroughly as you can.
• Then at the bottom of the page, enter your name and library barcode (the long number at the bottom of your student ID). Submit your request and your will receive a link to the article in your email.
• Usually you will receive the article in about 1 week, but that time frame may vary.

Click on the black arrow to open the chat in a new window.

If we're not online, please email us at urilibrarian@gmail.com. Please allow 1 business day for a response.