34 phrases · Levels: A1A2B1B2
Vorrei iscrivermi alla biblioteca.
I'd like to register at the library.
Say this at the library reception desk when registering for a library card for the first time. You'll need to bring an ID document and proof of address.
Sto cercando un libro su Dante Alighieri.
I'm looking for a book about Dante Alighieri.
Use this at the information desk when you need help finding a specific book or books on a particular subject. Library staff ('bibliotecari') are happy to assist.
Posso prendere in prestito questo libro?
Can I borrow this book?
Ask this at the checkout desk when you want to take a book home. Italian libraries typically allow 2–3 weeks borrowing time with possible renewal.
Vorrei restituire questo libro.
I'd like to return this book.
Say this at the return desk or circulation desk when handing back a borrowed book. Some libraries have self-service return boxes ('cassette di restituzione').
Posso prenotare questo libro?
Can I reserve this book?
Ask this when the book you want is currently on loan to another borrower. The library will put you on a waiting list and notify you when it's available.
Dov'è la sala di lettura?
Where is the reading room?
Ask this when you want to sit and read within the library. Italian libraries often have separate reading rooms ('sale di lettura') for quiet study and consultation of reference materials.
C'è il Wi-Fi per gli utenti?
Is there Wi-Fi for library users?
Ask this when you want to use the internet during your library visit. Many Italian public libraries offer free Wi-Fi to registered users or daily visitors.
Per favore, si abbassi la voce.
Please lower your voice.
A librarian or another user might say this to you. You might also need to say it politely to someone speaking too loudly near your study area.
Come funziona il catalogo?
How does the catalogue work?
Ask this at the information desk when you're unfamiliar with the library's search system. Most Italian libraries have switched from card catalogues to digital OPAC systems.
C'è una sezione per bambini?
Is there a children's section?
Ask this when visiting with children who want to use the library independently or when looking for children's books.
Avete libri in lingua inglese?
Do you have books in English?
Ask this if you're an English speaker looking for reading material in your native language, or if you're an Italian learner looking for bilingual editions.
Posso fare una fotocopia?
Can I make a photocopy?
Ask this when you need to copy a page or section from a library book that you cannot borrow. Copyright law limits how much can be copied.
Quali sono gli orari della biblioteca?
What are the library's opening hours?
Ask this at reception, by phone, or check the website to know when the library is open. Italian library hours often include a lunch closing ('chiusura pranzo').
Può consigliarmi un libro?
Can you recommend a book?
Ask the librarian for a personalised book recommendation. Italian librarians ('bibliotecari') are trained information professionals and excellent sources of reading advice.
La mia tessera è scaduta. Come la rinnovo?
My library card has expired. How do I renew it?
Say this when your library membership has expired and you need to renew it to continue borrowing. Renewal is usually straightforward and free.
Avete un archivio storico locale?
Do you have a local history archive?
Ask this when researching local history, genealogy, or historical documents. Many Italian public libraries have dedicated local history sections ('sezioni locali').
Questo libro è fuori catalogo. Come posso ottenerlo?
This book is out of print. How can I get it?
Ask this when a book you want is no longer in print. Libraries may be able to help through interlibrary loans or digital alternatives.
Dove posso consultare un dizionario?
Where can I consult a dictionary?
Ask this when you need to look something up in a reference work that you can't borrow. Reference books ('libri di consultazione') must be used in the library.
Avete i libri di testo universitari?
Do you have university textbooks?
Ask this at a university library or public library near a university. Many libraries stock required textbooks for local university courses, reducing students' costs.
Posso studiare qui?
Can I study here?
Ask this to confirm you're allowed to use the library as a study space and to find the appropriate area. Most Italian libraries welcome students.
Dove posso leggere i giornali?
Where can I read the newspapers?
Ask this when you want to read current newspapers or periodicals, which Italian libraries typically provide in a dedicated area.
Avete film in DVD da prestare?
Do you have DVDs to borrow?
Ask this when looking for film or audiovisual materials. Many Italian public libraries have media sections with DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks.
Il libro che ho preso in prestito è danneggiato.
The book I borrowed is damaged.
Report this immediately at reception if you notice pre-existing damage when borrowing a book, to avoid being held responsible. Also use this if you accidentally damage a borrowed book.
Organizzate eventi culturali?
Do you organise cultural events?
Ask this to find out about lectures, author talks, workshops, film screenings, and other events hosted by the library. Italian libraries are important cultural centres.
Fate corsi di italiano per stranieri?
Do you run Italian courses for foreigners?
Ask this if you're a non-Italian speaker looking for language learning resources or classes. Many Italian public libraries offer language support services to immigrants and newcomers.
Posso scaricare e-book con la tessera?
Can I download e-books with my library card?
Ask this to find out about digital lending services. Italian libraries increasingly offer e-book and audiobook downloads through national platforms.
Ho dimenticato la password dell'account.
I've forgotten the password for my account.
Say this to library staff when you've forgotten the password for your online library account or digital services login.
Avete mappe storiche della città?
Do you have historical maps of the city?
Ask this when researching local history, urban development, or genealogy. Many Italian libraries have impressive cartographic collections.
Ho restituito il libro in ritardo. Devo pagare una multa?
I returned the book late. Do I have to pay a fine?
Ask this at the return desk when you know you've returned a book after the due date. Italian libraries typically have small daily fines for late returns.
Avete edizioni rare o antiche?
Do you have rare or old editions?
Ask this when you're a scholar or researcher interested in rare books or historical publications. Access to rare materials is typically restricted and requires identification.
Posso donare dei libri alla biblioteca?
Can I donate books to the library?
Ask this if you have books at home you no longer want and would like to donate to the library. Italian libraries have specific policies on accepting donations.
Quando è la prossima giornata della lettura?
When is the next reading day?
Ask this when you're interested in national or local reading promotion days. Italy has several dedicated reading events throughout the year.
Posso richiedere un libro da un'altra biblioteca?
Can I request a book from another library?
Ask this when the book you need is not in the local library's collection but might be available at another library in the region or country.
Avete spartiti musicali da consultare?
Do you have musical scores to consult?
Ask this if you're a musician or music student looking for printed sheet music. Some Italian libraries have dedicated music sections ('sezioni musicali') or are associated with music conservatories.