Interlibrary Loans (ILL)

What is an Interlibrary Loan Request?

Interlibrary Loan 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 Resource Access

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • 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
  • Books: approx. 3 weeks
  • Articles: approx. 1–10 days

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

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • National requests: free when possible; courier fees may apply outside Gauteng.
  • International requests: articles may cost $10+ depending on length. No international books requested.

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]