this paper reviews the development of lib-passport service program by jiangsu academic library & information system (jalis). the service has realized a reader self-directed method of interlibrary loan of printed books at more than 130 university libraries within jiangsu province of china in the last 5 years and with a cumulative inter-library circulation of nearly 190,000 volumes. the paper describes the framework of the clientele, structure, functions, policies, and management mechanisms of the services, and demonstrates its contribution to the improved accessibility of library materials in the region.