Document supply
About our service
Through our document supply service we can provide copies of material in our collections to other libraries, within the limitations of copyright. For example, under copyright legislation, we are typically only able to provide a single article from an individual journal issue.
We offer a limited inter-library loans service, as only some items in our collection are available for loan. You can read more about this in our lending policy.
How to make a request
Libraries can make document supply requests and inter-library loan enquiries to the National Library of Scotland through our online enquiry form.
Include as much information you can about the item, including our shelf mark. We'll respond within five working days, but complex queries may take a little longer.
Prices
Copies
Copy sent by PDF — £14.10
UK copy sent by post — £15.60
International copy sent by airmail — £16.10.
Copyright cleared copying is charged at the standard UK copy price + the copyright fee + VAT where appropriate.
Loans
UK loan sent by post — £20.60
Standard international loan sent by airmail — £28.90
Lost or damaged items — £194.80. More will be charged if the item is particularly expensive to replace.
Payment methods
UK and Irish libraries must quote their British Library Customer Account code (e.g. 87-xxxx) and give a unique reference number on each request. Overseas libraries should state how they would like to pay.
We will accept payment by IFLA voucher, British Library customer account, or credit card.