Request Materials from Another Library

If you need a book, article, or other resource not available at Dalhousie Libraries, our Document Delivery service can obtain materials from other libraries on your behalf.

Some items may be more difficult to obtain, but we will do our best to fulfill your request.

Who Can Use This Service?

Dalhousie Affiliated Users (free):
 

• Dalhousie Students, Faculty, and Staff – All current members with a valid Dalhousie ID card, including Distance members
• CAAL (Council of Atlantic Academic Libraries) Users

Other Users (fee may apply):
 

• Regional Health Professionals – Eligible health professionals in Atlantic Canada. 
• Community Borrowers – Nova Scotia residents aged 18 or older. 
• Other Canadian University Students and Faculty – those associated with Canadian Universities outside of the Atlantic Region belonging to CURBA.

How to Request Materials

Books – Find the book in the Novanet catalogue. An option to "Request from other libraries" will appear when other Novanet Libraries also have your item. Select your preferred pickup location and confirm your request.

Articles or Copies – Submit a request through our Patron Request Form. Articles are typically delivered electronically to your registered email address.

Urgent Requests

If you need an item urgently, contact Document Delivery at 902-494-3612 to discuss possible options.

Receiving, Renewing or Returning Materials

• Delivery Times – Books typically arrive within 3 days to 4 weeks, while articles may take anywhere from a few hours to 2-3 weeks. If you have a deadline, use the "Need by date" feature or the comment field on the request form.
• Notification – You’ll receive an email when your item is available.
• Pickup – Physical items can be collected from your chosen Dalhousie Library location.
• Loan Periods – The lending library sets loan durations and renewal options. Due dates are indicated on the item's wrapper; please do not remove the wrapper.
• Returns – Return items to any Dalhousie Library service point by the due date to avoid overdue notices or potential replacement costs.

Contact Us

If you have questions or need help, contact us at docdel@dal.ca or 902-494-3612.