The core of resource sharing is the lending of books and other items between libraries. RAILS supports interlibrary loan through our delivery services, support for catalog consortia and catalog interconnectivity, and general guidance regarding interlibrary loan and reciprocal borrowing procedures.
We also support public library participation in the state's nonresident library card program and advocate for expanded provision of library services to all Illinois residents.
In addition, we promote economies of scale and other cost savings for libraries through coordinated purchasing, e-content projects, and grant opportunities.