Can I request a book from another library?
Stress 'ri-chie-DE-re'. 'Interlibrary' is expressed in Italian as 'prestito interbibliotecario'.
Ask this when the book you need is not in the local library's collection but might be available at another library in the region or country.
'Richiedere' = to request/apply for. 'Da un'altra biblioteca' = from another library. 'Prestito interbibliotecario' (PIL) = interlibrary loan. Italy's SBN network allows books to be transferred between member libraries. Processing time is typically 1–3 weeks.
Come funziona il prestito interbibliotecario?
How does interlibrary loan work?
Understanding the system.
C'è un costo per il prestito interbibliotecario?
Is there a cost for interlibrary loan?
Checking for fees.
Quanto tempo ci vuole per ricevere il libro?
How long does it take to receive the book?
Asking about timing.
The Italian interlibrary loan system is coordinated through BNCF (Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Firenze) and BNCR (Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale di Roma). Italy also participates in international ILL through IFLA's global network, allowing Italians to request books from libraries worldwide. This reflects Italy's commitment to open access to knowledge ('accesso aperto alla conoscenza').