How do I request material from another library (ILL)?
Answer
New System Instructions:
1. Search the Library Catalog for the item from the Library homepage, and click the link that says "Sign in to get complete results and to request items."
2. Click the "expand your search" link to search other collections.
3. Select the desired item from the list. If you don't see the item you want in the results list, you can place a manual request using the Blank ILL Request Form in your My Library Account.
4. Before placing a request by clicking "Get It", check:
- Is there an online version under “Related Titles”?
- Is it available through the San Diego Circuit?
- Is it avaiable through Article Galaxy Scholar?
What has changed?
In the Summer of 2025, the SDSU Library changed its system for requesting materials from other libraries to a system called Rapido that is integrated into our library catalog. This change was made across the entire California State University system to improve how we share resources between campuses.
How is the new system working?
Since the switch, we've been able to fill the majority of our requests using the new system and the San Diego Circuit borrowing network (which includes San Diego County libraries). However, we’ve seen an increase in the number of requests that we cannot fulfill and are still working to improve how the system handles certain items.While the new system may not, currently, be as robust as our previous system, we are actively working to improve access and fill rates.
What if I need something urgently?
If you run into any issues or have urgent needs, please contact Tim Tully, Head of Collection Strategies, at ttully@sdsu.edu. We’ll do our best to help.
If there are any pressing needs and concerns while we work to enhance the new system, please reach out to Tim Tully, the Head of Collection Strategies, at ttully@sdsu.edu.