To learn how to place a hold on an item in the catalog, watch this short video!
Interlibrary loan means going outside the library to get whatever it is you're looking for (books, magazine articles, DVDs, etc.). Here are the ways to request what you want:
Let us find it for you
Give us a call at 978-623-8430, send us an email at rdesk@mhl.org, or visit one of the service desks in person. Tell us what you want and we'll take it from there.
Request it through the online catalog
Check the online catalog to see if what you want is available at any of the 36 libraries in our library network. If it is, click the "place hold" link. You will need to log in with your library card number and password. You will have the option to choose a pickup location.
Use the Commonwealth Catalog
The Commonwealth Catalog broadens your search beyond our library network and allows you to search and place holds on millions of items at participating libraries elsewhere in Massachusetts.
Can't borrow it through the catalog?
If what you want can't be borrowed through the MVLC catalog or the Commonwealth catalog, fill out this interlibrary loan form.
Article requests
If you are looking for an article from a newspaper, magazine or journal, fill out this form to request it.
Not everything can be borrowed through interlibrary loan, especially materials that are new. If there's something you think would be good for the library to purchase, let us know by filling out our purchase suggestion form.