DUBLIN, Ohio, 22 July 2025—Libraries in OCLC's Express digital delivery program have reached a significant milestone—filling more than 2 million copy requests since the program launched in January 2021. This achievement underscores the power of the program to connect libraries delivering exceptional service and meet the growing demand from library users for quick access to articles and book chapters.

The Express program, designed for libraries committed to fast turnaround times, enables digital resource borrowing and lending through OCLC's global resource sharing network. To qualify for the program, libraries must maintain an average turnaround time of 18 hours or less. Today, the 1,100 participating Express libraries are now filling requests in an impressive average of just 10 hours—a game-changer for library users who want quick access to information.

This speed and efficiency are further enhanced by OCLC's AI-powered smart fulfillment capabilities, which optimize interlibrary loan (ILL) processes. By leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data-driven insights, OCLC's resource sharing systems automate critical steps, reduce processing time by up to 50 percent, and accelerate delivery speed.

"Reaching 2 million filled copy requests is a testament to the dedication and efficiency of our Express libraries," said Mary Sauer-Games, OCLC Chief Product Officer. "This milestone underscores how the program empowers libraries to deliver the information their users need—quickly and seamlessly—ensuring faster access to resources that support learning, research, and discovery."

Today, more than 1,100 libraries from nearly 20 countries participate in the Express program, delivering copy requests with remarkable speed. The program is available at no additional cost to libraries using OCLC's WorldShare ILL, Tipasa, ILLiad, or Resource Sharing for Groups, making it possible for them to maintain familiar workflows while significantly enhancing their delivery speed.

The Express program is part of OCLC's resource sharing network—the largest of its kind—connecting thousands of libraries worldwide. Express participants include a wide range of institutions, from academic, public, and corporate libraries to medical, government, and law libraries—all working together to deliver articles and book chapters with speed and efficiency.

For libraries facing staffing and budget challenges, like Drake University's Cowles Library in Iowa, Express has provided a welcome opportunity to excel. "By participating in OCLC's Express program, we've found a way to sustain our high level of customer service," said Joanna Stankiewicz, Head of Access Services at Drake University, a Tipasa user. By restructuring workflows and implementing automation, library staff now fill student and faculty copy requests in an average of 14.75 hours—which is 32 hours faster than their previous average.

For libraries with only one full-time ILL staff member, efficiency is everything. Susan Yach, Interlibrary Loan and Serials Assistant at Moraine Valley Community College in Illinois, relies on Express and WorldShare ILL's automation features to meet the high expectations of students and faculty. Since joining Express in 2021, the impact has been clear. "When people put in an article request and see how fast it comes back, they're really impressed. They are wowed by it. I am too," said Yach.

To find out how a library can qualify for the Express program, visit the support page.

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