Prospector
Access 30 million books, journals, DVDs, CDs, videos, and other materials from partner libraries throughout Colorado and Wyoming. With a single search you can borrow materials from the collections and have them delivered to your local library.
Holds Limit
All-Access Card: 20 items
Load Periods & Renewals
DVDs: 1 week, no renewals
Print materials and CDs: 3 weeks, 1 renewal
FAQs: Using Prospector
What if I lose the Prospector item?
How can I renew a Prospector item?
Click on My Account or call (970) 221-6740. If the item is eligible, it will auto renew.
How long does it take to get material?
The exact time depends on the library that will be supplying the material.
How long do I have to pick up my material after it arrives?
An item will be held for 7 days. Items not picked up within 7 days will be returned to the lending library.
Why would I choose Prospector instead of submitting an ILL request?
Prospector gives you more control over your requests. You can check the status of your requests, renew materials, or cancel requested-status items yourself. Additionally, many of the Prospector libraries will loan their books for a longer period than is available on Interlibrary Loan.
Interlibrary Loan
Interlibrary loan (ILL) is a service that permits you to borrow materials not owned by Poudre Libraries or are not available through the Prospector system. Please start with searching Prospector before making an ILL request.
You may request books, photocopies of journal/magazine articles, newspapers on microfilm, and a limited number of media items. We are unable to request from libraries outside of the United States.
FAQs: Using Interlibrary Loan
How many items may I request at a time?
You are limited to 3 active requests at a time. Active status is maintained from the time the ILL request is made until the material is returned to the lending library.
What does ILL cost?
This service is free unless a lending library charges a fee. Customers will be notified of any costs prior to completing the ILL request. Customers pay any costs.
How long does ILL take?
In-state borrowing averages about two weeks, out of state may take four weeks or longer.
How will I be notified my items have arrived?
Via email.
Where do I pick up and return ILL materials?
You have the choice of picking up your ILL at one of our three libraries. We ask that you pick up and return all ILL items directly to the Circulation Desk at one of libraries during regular business hours.
Note: It is important that you return ILL materials by the due date so we can maintain our ability to borrow materials from other libraries.
Can my ILL item be renewed?
Generally, no. However, if you need additional time for research, please contact the ILL department and we will inquire if any extension is possible.
Will I know if my request isn't filled?
Yes. We will let you know if we have been unable to locate a loaning library.
