What is Borrow Direct?

Borrow Direct is a rapid book request and delivery system. It enables Cornell faculty, staff and students to search the combined library catalogs of Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton and Yale, a collection of over 40 million volumes, and directly request expedited delivery of circulating items.

How does Borrow Direct work?

• You log into Borrow Direct using your Cornell ID number or NetID.
• Use the Search facility to locate the book you want to request.
• Click the Request button, verify your name, and enter your e-mail address.
• You will immediately receive an e-mail confirming your request. Additional e-mails will be sent advising you of the progress of your order.

What can be requested through Borrow Direct?

• Books and printed music not owned by Cornell libraries.
• Books and printed music that are currently unavailable at Cornell, e.g, charged out, lost, missing, at the bindery, etc.
• Books and printed music that normally circulate from the Brown, Columbia, Dartmouth, University of Pennsylvania, Princeton and Yale collections.

What cannot be requested through Borrow Direct?

• Books and printed music currently available at Cornell designated in the Catalog as "Not charged."
• Journals, magazines, newspapers, and other serials.
• Photocopies of journal articles, conference proceedings, etc.
• Reference books, microfilm and other non-circulating material.
• Books from most of our partners' medical and law libraries.
  

When will the book arrive from Borrow Direct?

• Most items will be available for pick-up at the circulation desk of the pick-up location you have chosen within 4 working days of the date you placed your request.
  

What is the loan period for Borrow Direct books?

• Usually 42 days, subject to recall by the owning library.
• Renewals are not currently available.

Who is eligible to use Borrow Direct?

• All current Cornell faculty, staff, and registered students who are willing to accept e-mail as the primary method of notification.

How can I get material unavailable from Borrow Direct?

• Request a book or article through Interlibrary Loan

Questions about Borrow Direct?

If you have any further questions or can't find what you need, please ask a librarian, or contact one of the 5 pickup locations on campus: