As you become engaged in your research, you may uncover books and articles not available at the Cheng Library.
Interlibrary Loan (ILL) is a service provided by the library where we obtain, whenever possible, materials not available in our collection, for educational and research purposes. This can include, but is not limited to, books, journal articles, documents, and audio-visual materials, although there are some exceptions (textbooks, archival material, etc.). Materials are obtained from other libraries, both in this country and throughout the world.
Turnaround time is generally quite fast, with most articles requests being filled within 24 hours or less, and books often arrive from other libraries within 5 business days.
For more information, visit the Interlibrary Loan & Article Service link on the library homepage.
Starting in August 2025, Interlibrary Loan and Article Copy requests can now be submitted directly through our library catalog on our homepage (https://www.wpunj.edu/library)! See the simple steps below to get started and reach out to either the Reference Desk (refdesk@wpunj.edu or 973-720-2116) or Interlibrary Loan (illweb@wpunj.edu or 973-720-2114) for assistance.
Look for the item you need using the search box on our homepage. Use whichever search is most appropriate for what you're trying to find (Search All, Books & Media, or Find Articles). In some cases, we already have what you're looking for in our collection!
If we do not own something, you can expand your search to see if someone else in the world has it. This will show you things that our library does not own, but that may be available through our library partnerships.
If you see something with a location of Get it for me from other libraries, that means that the book, article, etc. exists and can be requested. Keep in mind, though, that some materials cannot usually be requested, like textbooks or rare items. If so, we'll let you know so that you can plan accordingly.
If it's possible to place a request, you will see options underneath the Request Options section. Depending on the item, you may see buttons to place the following types of requests:
Use the Get It button and complete the form to process your request. You'll be asked to sign in and your requests will be connected with your personal account. We will notify you on your WP email when the items are available.
Use the "Still didn't find what you need?" link at the top of the results if you can't find an item.
If you come across books or articles that are only available in a physical format, you can request a scan and save yourself a trip to the Library!
Click on the title and look at Request Options to request a scan of articles or book chapters (we cannot scan entire books).
Use the Digitization Request box to ask for scans of articles from print journals or magazines that we have in the library.
Use Need a Chapter? to request scans of single chapters from our print books. Some limits apply, due to copyright.
These can be easily requested and are usually available to you within 24 hours (often less time!).
The Cheng Library has made arrangements with other libraries in NJ, that allow you to borrow materials directly from those institutions.