Why is it beneficial for a library to participate in an interlibrary loan network?

Participating in an interlibrary loan network is primarily beneficial because it maximizes resource sharing among libraries. This collaboration allows libraries to offer their patrons a wider array of materials than they could provide on their own. By lending items to one another, libraries can ensure that when a specific title or resource is not available in one library, patrons can easily access it from another institution. This extends the reach and effectiveness of library resources, enabling libraries to serve their communities better and meet diverse informational needs.

The other aspects of library resources, such as database access and digital resources, are important but are not the core advantage of interlibrary loans, which fundamentally focuses on the physical sharing of items. While reducing waiting times for requests can be an outcome of efficient interlibrary loan processes, the primary goal of joining a network is to effectively maximize the variety of resources available to users.