Requesting Books

The fastest way to have a book saved for you is to call the library directly at 248-204-3000.  The librarians will check for the item in the stacks, and bring it to be held for you at the front desk.   You can also call to find out if a specific issue or volume of a periodical title is available, and it can be held for you also.

You may request a book online directly from the library’s online catalog.  It will be ready for you to pickup within 24 hours.

If the book is Available, the item will be pulled for you and held.  You will be contacted by telephone that the item is waiting for you.

If the book is Checked Out, then the item will be saved for you immediately when the other person returns it.  Click on the “more information” link in the holding statement to see when the book will be due back.  Remember, sometimes the book comes back early, and sometimes it becomes overdue, so there is no guarantee that it will be returned in time.

If the book is not available, ask about Interlibrary Loan.  Another idea is to check the Worldwide Book Finder WorldCat to verify the book or periodical, and review the list of libraries that own the item.  Some of these (listed in green) are reciprocal borrowing libraries.

How to place a request online:

Search the catalog, and when you find the book you want click the “Request this Item” link.  You will be asked for your Banner ID (initials and Banner number)  and PIN number (your special library PIN is "changeme" if you have not used the system before.  When you log in , select a new PIN of your choosing.   Review the item information.   Add a volume if it is relevant, and change the “search until” date if you need to, and then press “Submit Request”.

When the item is available, you will be notified by email within 24 hours.