A JHU library team has simplified the process of requesting materials that Johns Hopkins doesn’t own or that are currently unavailable by creating a single request form for these items across the Johns Hopkins (JH) Libraries.
What’s New:
On July 7, 2025, the JH Libraries launched improvements to BorrowDirect that route all resource sharing requests through add-ons and logic, so that if items are unavailable through BorrowDirect, the request is automatically forwarded to other libraries. This change maintains flexibility for students, faculty, and staff, while optimizing the borrowing of physical materials from other libraries.
Better request tracking:
We’re still working on implementing a more transparent borrowing and request history that will help you track the status of your request, making request history and statuses more transparent. Currently, this improvement has been implemented for the Eisenhower Library.
A New URL for BorrowDirect
The URL for the BorrowDirect interface has changed, but the interface and the search functionality remains unchanged. Accessing the link from the Sheridan Libraries will get you to the updated interface. The old Borrow Direct interface redirects those who may have bookmarked the old site to the new interface:
One Button for Resource Sharing in Catalyst
There is now a single button on Catalyst (the library database) for resource sharing requests, which are limited to physical books only. The new button combines these into one button, and automated processes to determine where to obtain the requested book most quickly. The new button looks like this:
What has stayed the same:
- The BorrowDirect search interface.
- Each JH Library automatically creates new users for eligible Johns Hopkins students, faculty, and staff.
- Requested items from BorrowDirect are still available to check out for 16 weeks.
- The library is leveraging our resource sharing partnerships and agreements all over the world to provide you with items that you request.
- Your dedicated library team finds your request most efficiently and effectively.
Library staff will be happy to answer your questions and assist you in making this transition as smooth as possible. If you have any questions about borrowing books, please get in touch with your library or asklib@jhu.edu