UP Library's interlending amongst the OCLC Express libraries (fastest suppliers)

OCLC introduced the express digital delivery program for interlibrary loans (ILL) at the beginning of 2021. South African libraries participating in international interlending were included in the program. Libraries participating in the program are those that can deliver articles and other digital resources consistently within 18 hours or less. The program dashboard is checked in January, April and August.

The Department of Library Services (DLS) ILL was invited to participate in the Express program by OCLC in April and again in August because of their staff members’ exceptional work - supplying through the OCLC ILL networks within 18 hours or less.  This happened at a time when interlibrary loans operated on a digital and remote basis during the COVID-19 lockdown. Copies of articles, chapters from online journals and e-books were requested for UP students and staff. the DLS also supplied to other libraries worldwide with copies from e-resources and is working very hard to stay in the program, which will be checked again in January 2022.

Advantages of UP ILL being an Express member

Turnaround time is important to ILL staff, as patrons need their requested items quickly.  UP ILL being amongst the OCLC Express libraries is the solution that helps to provide requested materials to patrons with the current resource sharing service. The program made it easier for member libraries to view the list of libraries that can supply within 18 hours or less. The list is updated three times a year and UP ILL can always see the fastest libraries to improve their turnaround time. The dashboard is also available for libraries participating to view their own requesting and supplying turnaround time whenever needed.