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PhrasesAt the BookshopAvete libri in saldo?
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Avete libri in saldo?

Do you have books on sale?

Pronunciation

'Saldo' — SAL-do. Two syllables.

When to use it

Ask about discounted books — remainders, overstock, seasonal sales, or dedicated discount sections. Italian bookshops often have a 'libri scontati' (discounted books) table or section.

What it means

'In saldo' = on sale, discounted. Italian bookshops maintain fixed prices for new publications by law (the Levi Law / 'legge Levi') which limits discounts to 5% in most circumstances. However, remainders, old stock, and promotional periods allow larger discounts.

Variations

Avete una sezione libri scontati?

Do you have a discounted books section?

Asks for a specific area.

Questi libri hanno lo sconto?

Do these books have a discount?

About specific books.

Fate sconti con la tessera fedeltà?

Do you give discounts with the loyalty card?

Asks about loyalty scheme.

Mini Dialogue

Cliente: Avete libri in saldo? Libraia: Sì, il tavolo all'entrata sono tutti a tre euro. Cliente: Ci sono anche saggi? Libraia: Sì — troverà saggi, romanzi e qualche libro d'arte.

Customer: Do you have books on sale? Bookseller: Yes, the table at the entrance are all three euros. Customer: Are there also non-fiction books? Bookseller: Yes — you will find non-fiction, novels, and some art books.

Cultural Note

Italy's 'Legge Levi' (Law 128/2011) protects bookshops by limiting discounts on new books to 5% maximum (15% for publishers during limited promotional periods). This prevents online retailers from undercutting physical bookshops — a deliberate cultural policy to preserve Italian independent bookshops.