Patrons can browse the catalog without logging into anything, but they will need to log into their library account to place requests, see items they have checked out, place requests, and use certain features in the catalog, such as saving favorites.
Several ways to access My Library Account:
Try logging into your account to see what you find!
This page gives you the basics of requesting. For more about requesting, renewing, and borrowing, see the Borrowing Services page on the library website.
These videos summarize how to place a request from another campus (intercampus loan) and from another USG library (GIL Express).
You can request a book or other item physically located at another campus by requesting an "Intercampus Loan." This typically takes 1-3 business days.
Request books from other USG libraries by placing a "GIL Express Request." This typically takes 3-7 business days.
To place requests, sign into your account, click "Request," then follow the prompts. Be sure you indicate the campus where you want to pick up the item.
After placing your request, you can check your account to see the status of the request. You should also get an email if the request is denied (for example, if the book is not found on the shelf) or when the book is available for pick up.
GIL Express is the USG's system for delivering materials between institution libraries. Only books can be requested through GIL Express and most libraries are make certain parts of their collection (e.g. browsing books, reference, reserves) ineligible for GIL Express.
Keep in mind that libraries can decline a GE request. Typically this will be for textbooks or other high-demand items such as style guides. Sometimes they will also decline because they cannot find the item; in these cases, the request does not automatically pass to another library and the patron needs to place another request. Patrons will get an email if the request is denied, so they should keep an eye on their email.
When doing a search in the USG catalog, often you will run into a catalog record with a section as shown below. As long as there are other USG institutions listed and the book is available, use the GIL Express option rather than the ILL option. Only if the book is not available at GSU or elsewhere in the USG should you place an ILL request. It is wise to make a note in the request that GIL Express options were unavailable so the ILL folks don't kick it back for that reason.
If the request is for something other than a book, such as multimedia, a scanned chapter of a book, or an article, the patron should place an ILL request; they cannot request these items through GIL Express.
GIL Express items have a loan period of 28 days. They will be renewed automatically twice as long as no one else has requested that item. Patrons can see their GIL Express items in their library accounts.
Typically, GIL Express items can take 2-5 business days to arrive. (One day longer at Alpharetta since the GIL Express couriers don't go to Alpharetta.)
GIL Express does not charge overdue fines, but patron borrowing may be restricted for overdues. They will owe the library that owes the book a fine if they lose the book. The default lost fine is $70 but the lending libraries can set a different price.
To complete this unit, go to the Online Items in the Catalog subpage.
