To request an item from an OCUL library, please follow these instructions.
Please note: This process is only for inter-institutional ILL and document delivery requests. Individuals should contact their local library to request materials.
If you have any questions about the transition from RACER to the new Alma ILL system, or if you have any problems with the request form, please contact racer.transition@scholarsportal.info.
Some libraries may charge for interlibrary loans or document delivery requests. Please contact the library you wish to request from to inquire about their policies.
Step 1: Partner Setup
If you haven't already submitted a request with our new system, please ensure that your library has been set up as an ILL partner. Use the New ILL Partner Form to request to be added as a partner. Once you have been added, you will receive a confirmation email.
If you have an ISO-compatible ILL system, once setup is complete, you can proceed to submit your request via ISO. Otherwise, proceed to step 2.
Step 2: Check Ownership
You must identify the owning library and the call number of the material you want to request. Please also keep a link to the catalogue record on hand.
Verify holdings using one of the following:
- Voilà, the Canadian Union Catalogue
- Catalogue on an institution's website:
- Algoma University
- Brock University
- Carleton University
- Guelph, University of
- Lakehead University
- Laurentian University
- McMaster University
- Nipissing University
- OCAD University
- Ontario Tech University
- Ottawa, University of
- Queen's University
- Toronto Metropolitan University
- Toronto, University of
- Trent University
- Waterloo, University of
- Western University
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- Windsor, University of
- York University
When searching the catalogue of one of the Omni libraries, you will be able to see physical holdings for other Omni libraries. From within an item record, click "Omni Libraries That Own This Item" to see a list.
Please note: RACER guest access will no longer available as of May 2024.
Step 3: Submit Your Request
Use the OCUL Interlibrary Loan request form to submit your request to most OCUL libraries.
Please note: This form is for use by libraries without an interlibrary loan management system or by libraries with a system that does not interoperate with Alma. If your library has a system that sends ISO messages, please do not use the form. Contact ocul-cf@ocul.on.ca for information on system-to-system messaging.