Interlibrary Loans (ILL)

What is an Interlibrary Loan Request?

Interlibrary Loans Requests (ILL) provide a service to NWU researchers, academic staff, and registered master's and doctoral students by obtaining material not owned by the NWU Libraries via WorldCat Discovery. The Library offers documents to other libraries through a nationwide interlibrary loan network.

STEP 1: Check Availability

Ensure the item is not owned by NWU Libraries.

Check for Instant Article Access

STEP 2: Submit a Request

Use WorldCat Discovery to request books or articles.

STEP 3: Monitor your Request

Track the status via CAS login (requests won’t be processed if you have outstanding fines).

Check your request

FAQ's

Where are the Interlibrary Loan Desks located and what are their office hours?
  • Mahikeng: Library foyer | Mon-Fri: 07:30 – 16:30
  • Potchefstroom: Ferdinand Postma Library foyer | Mon-Fri: 07:30 – 16:30
  • Vanderbijlpark: Ground floor, next to the Reserve Desk | Mon-Fri: 07:30 – 16:30
How long does it take for items to be delivered?
  • Books: approx. 3 weeks
  • Articles: approx. 1–10 days

Delays may occur due to availability or processing times at lending libraries.

How do I receive and return items?
  • Articles: emailed directly to users.
  • Books: collected from ILL Desk; courier possible for off-campus users.
  • Books must be returned in person or via courier.
What are the loan periods and renewal policies?
  • Loan periods: 3–8 weeks, determined by supplying library.
  • Renewals: may be granted once depending on lending library policies.
  • Due date: on book strap—do not remove until returning the book.
  • Overdue fees: R10 per book per day.
Are there any costs involved?
  • National requests: free when possible; courier fees may apply outside Gauteng.
  • International requests: articles may cost $10+ depending on length. No international books requested.
Where can I find additional useful resources?

Contact Information

Mahikeng

James Kolodi

interbib@nwu.ac.za | +27 (0)18 389 2419

Courier address: North-West University, Mahikeng Library: Interlibrary Loans, Building A-7, Corner of Dr Albert Luthuli and University Drive, MMABATHO, 2745 [Maps]

Potchefstroom

Seka Sizani-Kelobang

interbib@nwu.ac.za | +27 (0)18 299 2793

Courier address: North-West University, Ferdinand Postma Library: Interlibrary Loans, Building E7A, Hoffman Street 11, POTCHEFSTROOM, 2531 [Maps]

Vanderbijlpark

Siyabonga Sithole

interbib@nwu.ac.za | +27 (0)16 910 3044

Courier address: North-West University, Vanderbijlpark Library: Interlibrary Loans, Building A14, Hendrik van Eck Blvd, VANDERBIJLPARK, 1900 [Maps]