When is using interlibrary loan a better idea than purchasing the book or material?

Using interlibrary loan is particularly advantageous when the book is about an obscure subject. This scenario often arises because libraries may not have a diverse collection of materials on niche topics due to budget constraints, demand, or the availability of copies. By utilizing interlibrary loan, patrons can access specialized materials that their local library might not possess, thereby enriching their research and learning opportunities without the financial burden associated with purchasing such less commonly sought-after titles.

In contrast, purchasing books that are bestsellers or widely available may not be fiscally responsible, as these titles can be found easily in multiple locations or may already have high circulation. Similarly, requesting materials that are frequently requested can lead to a tendency to purchase instead of taking advantage of interlibrary loan, particularly if demand indicates that a title would be beneficial for broader use within the library’s collection rather than for a single patron.