Do you have university textbooks?
Stress 'u-ni-ver-si-TA-ri'. 'Testo' = TES-to.
Ask this at a university library or public library near a university. Many libraries stock required textbooks for local university courses, reducing students' costs.
'Libri di testo' = textbooks. 'Universitari' = university-level. Italian university libraries ('biblioteche universitarie') are distinct from public libraries. They often have limited copies of required texts ('testi adottati') which can be borrowed on short loan ('prestito breve') — often 24–72 hours.
È disponibile per il prestito breve?
Is it available for short-term loan?
For quickly-needed textbooks.
Posso consultarlo solo in biblioteca?
Can I only consult it in the library?
For non-borrowable reference copies.
C'è la lista dei testi adottati per il corso?
Is there the reading list for the course?
Asking for course reading lists.
Italian university textbooks ('libri di testo universitari') can be very expensive. A typical Italian university course ('corso universitario') requires 3–5 books that can cost €30–80 each. The practice of sharing books, photocopying, or finding PDFs online is widespread among Italian students. Library copies are in high demand during exam periods ('sessioni d'esame').