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Interlibrary Loans

Reciprocal Borrowing

Borrowing at Other Libraries: COPPUL & CPSLD

Through the Library's memberships in COPPUL (Council of Prairie and Pacific University Libraries) and CPSLD (Council of Post-Secondary Library Directors), TRU Library participates in a reciprocal borrowing program that allows current TRU faculty, staff, and students to borrow materials directly from all academic libraries that participate in the program. 

Which libraries participate in the Reciprocal Borrowing Program?

For a complete list of participating libraries, see CPSLD Website: Reciprocal Borrowing and CURBA Participating Libraries.

What do I need to borrow from other institutions? 

If you are visiting a CPSLD library, present your valid TRU Campus ID card or proof of registration at TRU.  

If you are visiting a COPPUL/CURBA library, you will need to obtain a COPPUL card from TRU Library before you can borrow material from a CURBA library. The card serves as your introduction to other libraries. You will need to present your COPPUL Card and your TRU Campus ID card (or proof of registration/employment at TRU) at the Circulation Desk of the library you wish to use, and they will issue you a borrowing card for use at their library. The lending library may have restrictions on the types of materials and/or the number of items you can borrow. Each library has its own lending policies: please contact the relevant library before visiting.

Who is eligible to apply for a COPPUL Card? 

Currently registered TRU students, Faculty, and staff with TRU library accounts in good standing.

How do I apply for a COPPUL Card? 

Please contact the Library Research Help Desk at your TRU campus or email library@tru.ca to check for eligibility and request a COPPUL card. Open Learning, distance & regional students: contact TRU Library.

What happens when I present my COPPUL card and/or TRU Campus ID Card to the other library? 

The library may issue you a library card or an account number. Each library has its own policies and procedures. It is a good idea to telephone the other library before going. 

What if I'm visiting several COPPUL/CURBA or CPSLD libraries? 

You can use the same COPPUL Card at each library that you visit.

Can I access the other libraries' online databases from TRU or my home? 

No, the reciprocal loan program does not allow for remote access to another institution's licensed databases. It is up to the library you are visiting to determine if you can access the databases while you are visiting their campus.

What happens if I lose library materials or return them late? 

You are responsible for all fines incurred by the library you are visiting. If your account at the TRU Library or another CURBA/CPSLD library becomes delinquent, your reciprocal borrowing (i.e., CURBA) privileges will be suspended.

Where do I return library materials? 

You can return items directly to the CURBA/CPSLD library that you borrowed them from, or drop your books off at TRU Library. Please make sure to give TRU Library enough time to ship materials through Canada Post. For example, if your books are due on Saturday, please return them to TRU Library by Monday, at the latest. TRU Library is not responsible for any fines incurred due to shipping delays, strikes, statutory holidays, etc.