Assuming you're talking public libraries, it depends on the state. Some states do ILL much better than others, including lending through multistate compacts. H

Assuming you're talking public libraries, it depends on the state. Some states do ILL much better than others, including lending through multistate compacts. Having both a family member and a couple friends who are/have been librarians, I seriously doubt it is a competitive instinct. I'm sure there are exceptions, but most librarians are genuinely dedicated to information freedom. (They certainly aren't getting MLS degrees for the money...) I doubt they'll ever mail it direct to your home, though.