Items from the NLM's collection (books, journals, microfilm, etc.) may be requested only for use in the library’s reading room, located in Building 38 on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland. Users will not see a Request link in the LocatorPlus Catalog until their registration has been confirmed to request materials (Step 4 below).

Here’s how to get started if it is your first time making a request:

Step 1: Create an Account

• Visit the LocatorPlus Catalog website and create an account by signing in to the catalog. For detailed instructions, see this Help page.

Step 2: Register Your Account

• Complete the Personal Details section in your account and save your information. For detailed instructions, see this Help page.

Step 3: Schedule a Reading Room Appointment

• Here is how to make an appointment to visit the NLM Reading Room.

Step 4: Confirm Your Registration On-Site

• During your first visit to the NLM Reading Room, your registration details will be verified.
• Once verified, you will see a Request link in the catalog when logged in.

Step 5: Request Items

• Log in to your account.
• Search the catalog for the materials you need.
• Submit your requests directly from the catalog by clicking on the Request link.

If you have already verified your account in person during your first visit to the NLM Reading Room, you only need to do steps 3 and 5 for any future visits.

For more details on how to request specific types of materials, check the corresponding sections:

• Books
• Journal Issues
• Manuscript Collections