If DDL doesn't have what you're looking for, you may be able to borrow it from another library!
Interlibrary loan (ILL) is a service that libraries across Michigan participate in, through a system called MeLCat or just MeL. This service allows DDL cardholders to borrow items that are not owned by our library. A request for an item is made through MeL's public catalog and another library will loan DDL that item, in turn we will loan it to you. This allows access to an abundance of materials from various libraries across the state!
How much does it cost to use MeL services?
Borrowing items through MeL is free for Michigan library patrons! The Library of Michigan, largely through Federal grant funding, and the participating MeLCat libraries assume the cost for this service.
How do I find out if MeLCat has what I'm looking for?
Visit Mel.org to seach the Michigan eLibrary catalog. Keep in mind, the newer the item is, the harder it may be to borrow. Items considered NEW, published within the last 4 to 6 months, typically won't be available from lending libraries until after 6 months.
How do I request an item from MeLCat?
If you are searching the Michigan eLibrary catalog from your computer or mobile device and find an item you wish to borrow, click on the Get this from MeLCat button found to the right of the listed item. If you do not have access to a computer or would like assistance, you may request items by calling the Library's Service Desk. Staff will do the searching and place the request for you.
How long does it take to receive an item?
On average, it will take between 7 to 10 business days for a MeLCat item to arrive at our library and become available for pickup. Libraries from the next town over all the way to the U.P. participate in MeL, so sometimes items will arrive quicker or take a bit more time.
How long can I borrow a MeL item?
Depending on the type of item, the borrowing time will vary between 7 to 28 days, typically with CDs and DVDs being a week and books being 3 to 4 weeks. When checking out at the Service Desk, staff will write the due date on the MeLCat slip attached to the item.
Can I renew a MeL Item?
Typically MeLCat items may be renewed at least 1 time. Renewal limits can vary based on decisions made by the lending libraries. Some libraries don't allow for renewals and some allow more than 1 renewal. Material renewals can be requested through your online MeLCat account or by calling the Library's Service Desk (517) 669-3156
Where do I pick up my MeL requested items?
Once contacted that your MeL hold is ready, it can be collected from the Library's Service Desk. MeL items are held behind the desk because they need to be checked out by staff from the MeLCat system.
Can I use MeL to checkout materials while visiting other libraries?
Yes, if that library participates in MeL's Visiting Patron service. The DeWitt District Library participates in MeL's Visiting Patron service. As a DDL cardholder, this means you can use your library card to check out eligible materials in-person from participating libraries. Members from participating libraries can also check out eligible materials from DDL using their home library card. Materials may be returned either to DDL or to the library where you checked them out.
For a full list of participating libraries, visit the list of MeL Participating Libraries and check the second to last column for Visiting Patron status.
Why is MeLCat telling me I can't borrow an item?
Your library card may be prevented from borrowing through MeL for the following reasons:
- The item is available from the DeWitt District Library and can't be borrowed from another library.
- The item is currently unavailable from all of lending libraries that have it in their collection.
- Your library card has expired and needs to be renewed.
- Your library account has been suspended due to lost or damaged materials.
- You've actually reached the requesting limit of 50 MeL items at one time!
What if MeLCat doesn't have what I am looking for?
If the item you're looking for was published in the last several years, you can make a request for the library to purchase the item and add it to our own collection! Complete the Suggest a Purchase form and if selected for purchase a hold for the requested item will be placed on your library account.