Phrases › At the Library › Posso prenotare questo libro?

Posso prenotare questo libro?

Can I reserve this book?

Pronunciation

Stress 'pre-no-TA-re'. 'Prenoto' = pre-NO-to — I reserve.

When to use it

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.

What it means

'Prenotare' = to reserve/book. 'Il libro è in prestito' = the book is currently on loan. Italian libraries use the term 'mettere in lista d'attesa' (to put on the waiting list). Many offer online reservations through their catalogue website.

Variations

Il libro è disponibile o è in prestito?

Is the book available or on loan?

Checking availability first.

Quando sarà disponibile?

When will it be available?

Asking about wait time.

Potete avvisarmi quando arriva?

Can you notify me when it arrives?

Requesting notification.

Mini Dialogue

— Questo libro risulta in prestito. Lo vuole prenotare? — Sì, grazie. Quanto dovrò aspettare? — Circa due settimane. La avvisiamo quando è disponibile. — Perfetto. Come mi contattate? — Via email o SMS, come preferisce.

— This book is currently on loan. Would you like to reserve it? — Yes, thank you. How long will I have to wait? — About two weeks. We'll notify you when it's available. — Perfect. How will you contact me? — By email or SMS, whichever you prefer.

Cultural Note

Online reservation ('prenotazione online') has transformed Italian library access. Systems like 'Opac' (Online Public Access Catalogue) allow Italians to search the catalogue, reserve books, and renew loans from home. The 'Polo bibliotecario' (library consortium) system allows Italian libraries in the same region to share collections and transfer books between branches.

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