By FPL_Staff
If we were in a perfect world, I’m sure we’d have a copy of every book out there here at the library. Sadly, this isn’t the case. If there’s something we don’t have in the collection or can’t access through our databases, you still have a few options. In this post, we’re covering the basics of inter-library loans, reciprocal lending agreements, and access to local academic libraries.
Inter-Library Loan
Inter-library loans are a great option to access materials at other libraries. Other libraries from across the state will ship their materials to the Frisco Public Library as requested. It can take a few weeks for materials to get to us, especially if an item is coming from a distant location. It’s also important to note that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, not all libraries are actively circulating items at this time.
To learn more about the inter-library loan process, visit our website here:
You can access and browse the Inter-Library Loan catalog here:
Texas Group Catalog, opens a new window
If you have not used the Inter-Library Loans before, check out FPL_John’s post on how to get started and request books here:
Reciprocal Lending Agreements
The Frisco Public Library has reciprocal lending agreements with four North Texas cities; Plano, McKinney, Allen, and the Colony. Frisco residents may receive a free library card at these libraries and their residents may do the same. This can be a great alterative to inter-library loans. Inter-library loans are typically shipped in bulk mail, meaning it can take a few weeks for an item to get to us. If one of these libraries has an item we don’t have in our collection, it will most likely be quicker to take a trip to one of these libraries than wait on an inter-library loan.
Keep in mind that these libraries will have different lending policies than what we have. That means they may have different checkout periods, number of checkouts allowed, etc. You may also not have access to eBooks at these libraries because of restrictions written in the licensing agreements with eBook vendors.
Local Academic Libraries
Local colleges and universities in the area provide community access to their libraries based on county of residence. These can be a great resource when trying to find niche items or topics that we may not have here at the Frisco Public Library. Keep in mind that the first goal of these libraries is to serve their students, faculty, and staff. With community access, you won’t have the same privileges as if you were a student, faculty, or staff member nor will you have access to every resource that a student, faculty, or staff member may access to. Carefully check the policies and procedures of each institution. If you choose to go to one of these libraries, make sure to be extremely respectful of their materials and the environment of their library.
Collin College
Residents who live in the Collin County portion of Frisco may receive a community access card for free. For more information, visit the Collin College Libraries website link below:
https://www.collin.edu/library/aboutus/procedures_c.html
Note: There are a number of restrictions on what someone can borrow with a courtesy card, as well as the length of time items may be borrowed. For more information, visit the link above to learn more.
University of North Texas
Residents who live in the Denton County portion of Frisco may receive a courtesy card at UNT for free. For more information, visit the UNT Libraries website link below:
https://library.unt.edu/services/courtesy-cards/
Note: There are a number of restrictions on what someone can borrow with a courtesy card, as well as the length of time items may be borrowed. Visit UNT’s borrowing policy for more information:
https://library.unt.edu/policies/#borrowing
Texas Women’s University
Residents who live in the Denton County portion of Frisco may receive a courtesy card at TWU for free. For more information, visit the TWU Libraries website link below:
https://twu.edu/library/visiting-the-libraries/
Note: There are a number of restrictions on what someone can borrow with a courtesy card, as well as the length of time items may be borrowed. Visit TWU’s borrowing policy for more information:
https://twu.edu/library/services/circulation-services/borrowing-materials/, opens a new window
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