Library FAQs

You can use the Library's Document Supply Services to request books, book chapters, journal articles or other resources not available at Sheffield Hallam.

How many requests can I make?

There is no limit, but bear in mind that the service is expensive, so try to be selective and do not abuse it. Before requesting an item, please make sure that it is the correct source and is relevant to your studies. Google Books provides useful previews to help you decide.

How to make a request using Document Supply

• Search for the item you require in Library Search

• Select 'Search Hallam Library and beyond' from the refine my results options.

• When the item is found, select 'Request via Document Supply Services'. This will prepopulate the form for you with the details of the resources you are requesting. 

• Check that the information on the form is correct, read the declaration and tick the box to confirm, then use the send request button to submit.

This Document Supply video will take you through the steps to request a resource.

Request a thesis

You can use the British Library's EThOS service to find and request theses from other British universities. It's free for most items; if you are asked for payment or would like a thesis that is not listed in EThOS, please contact the Document Supply Services Team.

What if I can't find the item I need using Library Search - Expand beyond SHU collections?

If you are unable to find the item you require in the expanded Library search, you may use the DSS request form. To avoid delays, complete all relevant information on the form and do not use abbreviations, e.g. for journal titles. Please note that you will need to include the ISSN for journal article requests, which can be found by searching the ISSN Portal.

Are there items that can't be obtained by Document Supply Services?

We can obtain most academic books and journals, but we may not able to obtain some items, for example:

• expensive market research reports

• internal company reports

• unpublished reports

• unpublished papers from conferences or meeting

• some international references