Idaho Commission for Libraries

Q1. What is LiLI Express?

LiLI is Libraries Linking Idaho, an alliance of libraries and library consortia working together to bring networked library services to the citizens of Idaho. LiLI Express is one of the services achieving that goal. It is a reciprocal borrowing program that makes it possible for customers of one library to borrow from other participating libraries when traveling to work, study, recreate or visit.

Q2. How can I use the LiLI Express service?

When you find yourself at a LiLI Express participating library, simply show them your current home library card and a picture ID. The library will then ask you to review the LiLI Express guidelines and issue to you a visitor library card with a LiLI Express logo on it.

Q3. How do I find out which libraries participate?

The list of participating libraries is available online here.

Q4. What do I do if the person at the check-out desk doesn’t know about LiLI Express even though the library supposedly participates?

Ask the staff member to check with their supervisor, or let them know that there is information about LiLI Express, including a list of participating libraries, on the LiLI Website.

Q5. How many things can I check out? How long can I use them?

The number of items and length of use depend upon the lending libraries policies. Borrowers are subject to the borrowing terms of the library in which you check out books.

Q6. Where do I return the materials I checked out?

Always return materials to the library at which you checked them out.

Q7. What happens if I lose something I checked out from a library or I return it late?

When you check materials out from a library, you agree to follow their policies. If you lose something, you will need to repay library replacement costs. If you return it late, you will be responsible for paying any overdue fines that have accrued.

Q8. Can I get a card if there is no library service in my town?

If you live in an area with no library service, you may obtain a non-resident “home library” card at any of the participating, publicly-funded public libraries by paying the non-resident fee of that library.

Q9. Does this mean I have a new home library?

Your “home library” is defined as either:

1. The library whose primary mission is to serve you by virtue of enrollment, residence, or employment, or
2. A library that issues you non-resident card as a result of your paying their locally established non-resident fee.

Q10. Why can’t I just use Interlibrary Loan?

You can. LiLI Express is simply an alternative method to accessing library materials. You may wish to make use of another library if you are traveling for work or pleasure to another part of the state. Or, if you need an item from a participating library faster than ILL services can deliver it, you may choose to drive to that location and borrow it using the LiLI Express service.

Q11. Can a library find out my past borrowing history?

When you borrow through the LiLI Express program, you are agreeing to guidelines that allow the lending library to contact your home library to determine if you have any outstanding fees or fines. Information regarding titles, topics, or other personal information will not be shared.

Q12. Do I have to pay to use LiLI Express?

LiLI Express is a free service to the patrons who use it and to the libraries who choose to participate.