At the Library – Borrowing a Book
Welcome to Hello English! Visiting a public library in the US is free and easy—but you’ll need a few simple phrases to borrow a book in English. This lesson “At the library” gives you a realistic conversation and essential vocabulary to help you check out books confidently.
Watch this short, realistic conversation between a library visitor and a librarian. Perfect for listening practice!
Library Conversation
Characters:
• Aisha – the visitor
• Mr. Chen – the librarian
Aisha: Hi!
Mr. Chen: Hello! Can I help you?
Aisha: Yes, I’d like to borrow this book.
Mr. Chen: Do you have your library card?
Aisha: Yes, here it is.
Mr. Chen: Great. It’s due back in three weeks.
Aisha: Can I renew it online?
Mr. Chen: Yes, as long as no one’s waiting.
Aisha: Got it.
Mr. Chen: Would you like a bag?
Aisha: No, thank you.
Mr. Chen: Enjoy your reading!
Aisha: Thanks!
Mr. Chen: You’re welcome!
Aisha: Have a nice day!
💡 This dialogue is perfect for audio or video practice! It’s set in a quiet, everyday US library—and uses short, polite sentences with practical terms like “library card,” “due back,” and “renew online.” The rhythm is calm and clear, ideal for beginners to repeat and memorize.
Essential Library Vocabulary
Learn these key terms to borrow books with confidence:
- Borrow – to take a book temporarily (free of charge)
- Library card – your ID to check out books
- Due back – the date you must return the book
- Renew – to extend the return date
- Check out – to borrow a book officially
- Overdue – returned after the due date (may have fines)
- Librarian – the staff member who helps you
Other Useful Phrases
- “Where’s the fiction section?”
- “Is this book available?”
- “Can I place a hold on this?”
- “Do you have Wi-Fi here?”
Practice Tip
Practice saying “I’d like to borrow this book” and “Do you have your library card?”—these are the two most common lines at US public libraries!
Why This Matters
Whether you’re:
• A student using the library for research
• A new resident getting a free library card
• A traveler looking for a quiet place to read
…this conversation helps you access one of the most useful free resources in the US.
Now you’re ready to borrow a book in English—easily and politely! Bookmark this guide, or try our interactive quiz to test your library vocabulary.
Happy reading! 📚
