Conarls

 / Cost Scheme

• Inter-Regional Unit (IRU) cost scheme for loans
• How the scheme operates
• Further information

/ Inter-Regional Unit (IRU) cost scheme for loans

In October 2000, Conarls instituted the IRU Cost Scheme to reduce inter-lending costs for libraries. Initially the Scheme was only available to libraries in membership of the regional library systems but was subsequently made available to any UK library.

A list of participants is maintained by the National Library of Scotland. To register (free) for the Scheme, contact Inter-Library Services at the National Library of Scotland.

/ How the scheme operates

Prices:

1. The IRU Scheme is for loans only and applies to inter-regional lending. Different regions may have separate pricing arrangements in their own areas. Libraries not part of either regional or IRU schemes usually charge the BLDSC rate, but some have their own individual charges; in either case they should be charged the same price as they charge others.
2. As of 1st August 2008, the charge for loans between IRU participants is £5.50. The price is reviewed annually and changes notified via relevant e-mail lists.

Process:

1. All participants’ ILL requests must clearly carry the information in order to ensure being charged the correct rate:
   • BLDSC Customer Code (8x-xxxx)
   • Request reference number
   • The current value under the Scheme (i.e. £5.50). This is because, although a supplying library can double check the list of IRU participants it is not obliged to do so.
2. As part of its usual work processes, the supplying library claims back the IRU charge from BLDSC.
3. As part of its "banker function" (usual invoicing processes), BLDSC charges the borrowing library the IRU price, plus a "third party" transaction fee that is set by BLDSC.

/ Further information

If you have any queries about the IRU scheme, contact Inter-Library Services at the National Library of Scotland; for information on any local/regional pricing arrangements, please contact your local region.