Requesting Items via FirstSearch Databases

Please note: Because FirstSearch requests can go directly to lending libraries, material requested on FirstSearch forms may be obtained more quickly than material requested through blank ILL request forms. Please observe the document type and description of each item to avoid requesting difficult or impossible to obtain items such as computer files and presentation boards.

To access the FirstSearch Databases, go to the alphabetical List of Research Databases and select a database that lists FirstSearch in the database provider column:

Most books are listed in WorldCat. For assistance choosing a database for articles, send e-mail to the Electronic Reference Desk or phone Reference Desk at (541)737-7295.

To place an Interlibrary Loan request from a FirstSearch database (you must be registered for ILL):

  1. Find a record for an item you would like to obtain and select it.
  2. Click "Libraries that Own Item" and verify that Oregon State University is NOT listed.
  3. If OSU is not listed, follow these steps:
    1. Click on the ILL icon.
    2. Fill out the electronic form with a complete citation.
    3. Labels for required fields are highlighted. Enter n/a if you have nothing to enter in one of these fields.
    4. It is necessary for E-Campus and OSU employees at remote locations to select the appropriate status in the drop-down menu.
    5. Click the submit button and wait for the confirmation report at the top of the screen: "Your ILL request was sent successfully"
    6. If you do not see this confirmation report, please contact a Reference Librarian.

For additional information or assistance, please contact a Reference Librarian: or (541) 737-7295.

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