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#2 How to Borrow a Book at the Library｜Practical English Conversation

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Izumi

When I am looking for an English book at the library, it is quite common to find myself in a situation where I need to say, “I’d like to borrow this book.”

In English-speaking libraries, I often need to ask about borrowing procedures, renewal rules, or approach the staff for assistance.

In this lesson, I will introduce basic English phrases you can use when borrowing a book at the library, along with tips for making the conversation smoother.

Contents
  1. Dialogue
  2. 1. A Polite Expression for Everyday Use
  3. 2. Asking About Required Items
  4. 3. A Standard Phrase for Due Dates
  5. 4. Asking Politely About Renewal
  6. 5. Expressing Gratitude Naturally
  7. Summary

Dialogue

A
A

Excuse me, I’d like to borrow this book.

B
B

Sure. Do you have a library card?

A
A

Yes, here it is.

B
B

Thank you. The due date is in two weeks.

A
A

Got it. Can I renew it online if I need more time?

B
B

Yes, you can renew once through our website.

A
A

Perfect. Thanks for your help.

B
B

You’re welcome. Enjoy your reading!

1. A Polite Expression for Everyday Use

I’d like to ～ is the contracted form of “I would like to ～.” It is one of the most frequently used polite expressions in English.

Examples
  • I’d like to borrow this book.
  • I’d like to ask a question.
  • I’d like to make a reservation.

It is especially essential in public places or service situations such as libraries, hotels, restaurants, or airports.

2. Asking About Required Items

At library counters, staff often confirm your registration status or identity by using the question “Do you have ～?.”

Examples
  • Do you have a library card?
  • Do you have any overdue books?
  • Do you have an ID with you?

This question is not limited to libraries—it is also widely used in hospitals, airports, and hotels. It is a very useful phrase to remember whenever I need to complete procedures in English.

3. A Standard Phrase for Due Dates

The expression “due date” means “deadline” or “expiration date.” In the library context, it refers to the book return deadline.

Examples
  • The due date is in two weeks.
  • The due date is on April 5th.

Here, “in two weeks” means “two weeks from now.” Notice that the preposition in is used to indicate a time period.

4. Asking Politely About Renewal

The verb renew means “to extend” or “to update.” In libraries, it refers to extending the borrowing period.

Example
  • Can I renew it online?

Other possible variations include:

Related Expressions
  • Is it possible to renew this book?
  • Can I extend the due date?

5. Expressing Gratitude Naturally

Ending a conversation with staff by saying “Thanks for your help.” leaves a polite and positive impression.

Example
  • Thanks for your help.
  • Thank you for your assistance.

In more casual settings, I can also use:

Related Expressions
  • Thanks a lot.
  • Appreciate it.

Summary

Key English Phrases
  • I’d like to borrow this book.
    → A polite way to request borrowing a book.
  • Do you have a library card?
    → A standard phrase to confirm identification or borrowing conditions.
  • The due date is in two weeks.
    → A common way to inform about the return deadline.
  • Can I renew it online?
    → A convenient question when asking about renewal procedures.
  • Thanks for your help.
    → A natural and polite expression of gratitude, perfect for closing the conversation.
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