Take advantage of our Interlibrary Services using either CSU+ or Interlibrary Loan (ILL) to request a copy of an article or book for free from another library. We recommend using CSU+ first as you will typically get your material quicker than with Interlibrary Loan. If using Interlibrary Loan, you will need to register the first time you use it.
How-To Instructions
You can request books that the library does not own either through CSU+ or Interlibrary Loan using the steps below.
- If you have searched OneSearch and do not see the item you want, you can search for it using the CSU Collections and Beyond search pictured below.
- If you do see your item, click on the item to open it and continue to the next step. If you do not see the item you are looking for, select the "Still did not find what you need" option at the top of the results screen and complete the request form. Make sure to select that you are requesting a book and not an article.
- Next, log in to your OneSearch Account (if you haven't already). If you are not signed in, the CSU+ request option will not appear.
- Next, select whether you want a full print copy of the book or if you only need one chapter, select "Get a digital chapter." Complete the form that appears.
- Complete the form that appears and hit Send. A message should appear telling you that the request was submitted successfully.
- Watch your email for updates! You will receive an email notification once your article is available to view/download. Check the status of your request following the steps outlined on this page. A request may be canceled because the item is unavailable from one group of libraries. If this happens, check your cancellation email for an option to request the item through Interlibrary Loan.
You can request articles that the library does not have access to either through CSU+ or Interlibrary Loan using the steps below.
- Search for the article in OneSearch using the CSU Collections and Beyond search option pictured below.
- If you do see your item, click on the item to open it and continue to the next step. If you do not see the item you are looking for, select the "Still didn't find what you need" option at the top of the results screen and complete the request form. Make sure to select that you are requesting an article and not a book.
- Next, log in to your OneSearch Account (if you have not already). If you are not signed in, the CSU+ request option will not appear. Once you are logged in, click the "Get It" option where it says Get a Digital Copy and complete the form that appears.
- Complete the form that appears and hit Send. A message should appear telling you that the request was submitted successfully.
- Watch your email for updates! You will receive an email notification once your article is available to view/download. Check the status of your request following the steps outlined on this page. A request may be canceled because the item is unavailable from one group of libraries. If this happens, check for a cancellation email and click the option to request the item through Interlibrary Loan.
CSU+ and Interlibrary Loan FAQ
We are unable to accommodate requests for course-required books and high-use textbooks see further in FAQ. The items you need may already be on reserve at the Library Service Desk. If an item is not on reserve, please ask your instructor to put a copy on reserve using the Course Reserve form.
CSU+ and Interlibrary Loan requests generally have a turnaround time of 3 to 10 days. There are many variables that can affect how quickly you'll receive your item. Allow up to 2 weeks to receive the material.
You can check the status of your submitted CSU+ requests by going to My Requests area of your OneSearch account.
In the requests screen, you will be able to see the estimated delivery date.
Once the item is available, you will see an option to download it.
A request may be canceled because the item is unavailable from one group of libraries. If this happens, check for a cancellation email and click the option to request the item through Interlibrary Loan.
You can pick up University Library general collection books, along with CSU+ and Interlibrary Loan holds
CDs and DVDs must be returned to the Service Desk, 1st Floor Library North. Do not use the book returns or library lockers.
All other items may be returned either to the Loan Desk or to the book drops outside the library.
- From OneSearch, use the navigation bar above the search bar to see more options/services.
- Select CSU+ Request.
- Log in using your MyCalStateLA username and password when prompted.
- Select whether you are requesting a Book and Media or Article.
- Fill out as much information as possible. For articles, add the DOI or PMID if possible (normally in the citation)
- Submit your request by selecting "Send Request."
- You can view the status of your request(s) in the "My Requests" section of your OneSearch account.
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) Service
1st time User? Register Here Login to your ILL Account
More questions about ILL FAQ.
Contact Us
Have questions about your requests? Contact Interlibrary Services Staff.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (323) 343-4983