Everyone knows the library catalog is great place to start searching the library's collections right? For an overview, you'll definitely want to check out this handy guide to catalog basics. But did you know that you can send a "direct request" from to the catalog? You never have to leave your desk!

After you find something in the catalog using your Virtual Library Card account you can can submit an online request to have it shipped directly to your office for free! You can also request that an item be pulled from the shelf, checked out, and held at the library for pickup at your convenience.

Here's how it works:

Step 1: Once you've signed in, successfully run a search, and found an item you are interested in, click on the item's title in the "Brief Record" as shown below:

Step 2: This opens the "Full Record" display. At the bottom of the full record look for the "Items" box and select "Request Item" (the shopping cart icon). Be sure to note the status of the item as well. The example below indicates the item is "Available" 

Tip: Be sure to note the status of the item. In this case is says "Available" but some items may show a status that indicates they are not available.

Step 3: A "Request Item" dialog box should appear. Select your delivery method (either "Hold at the library for me to pick up" or "Ship this to me at no charge"), and add any additional information (for example, special shipping instructions, etc.), then click the "Request Item" button as shown below:

Step 4: Finally, click the close button to complete the transaction:

That's it! Library staff are notified immediately and we'll ship requested item(s) directly to your office free of charge (usually within 24 hours) or have them ready for you to pick up right away.

If you still have questions about our catalog, collections or services, don't hesitate to ask. We're here to help!

Gil Kenner
(434) 293-1926
VDOT Research Library