How to Find & Get Items From Other Libraries

If COM Library does not have the book you want, you can search the catalogs of other libraries or use WorldCat to see if libraries nearby have it. Once you've found the book, you have several options for getting it. 

Get It

1. Library Card
   Use (or get) a library card from the closest public library that has it. All residents of Galveston county can get a library card from any public library in Galveston County, you just have to have proof of residents. Usually two forms of ID with your address, one with your picture will work. Check local public or academic libraries.
2. TexShare Card
   Get a TexShare card at the Circulation desk in COM Library so you can check the book out from a nearby college. This option or Interlibraryloan (ILL) are the best options for getting articles COM Library does not have. 
3. Interlibraryloan (ILL)
   COM students, faculty and staff COM Library can request a book through Interlibraryloan (ILL). This option can take the longest as the book has to come through the mail. You can also request an article through Interlibraryloan (ILL). 

Here is how to find out if another library has the book you want, step by step:

1. Say you are looking for the book The dreamt land : chasing water and dust across California and COM Library does not have the book. You might be able to the book from another local library. 
2. Use WorldCat, which searches what most libraries have simultaneously, to see if a local library has a copy. Just type in your title and hit search to get started. 
3. Click on the title when you find a match. 
4. On the book page, scroll down until you see Find a copy in the library. WorldCat will list the libraries closest to you that have the the book. You can change the zip code to get closer results. 

Tip: If you do go to another library it's a good idea to call ahead to make sure the book is available and not checked out.