EverydayIntermediate
Borrowing and returning books in English
Everyday English for borrowing and returning books. Key line: “Hi, I'm *returning* this one, and I'd like to *check* *out* this *novel*.”
Full script
Lin
Hi, I'm returning this one, and I'd like to check out this novel.
Them
Sure—do you still have your library card, or should I look you up?
Lin
I've got it. And is this one due back in two weeks?
Them
Yep, two weeks. Unless you read all night again.
Lin
No promises. Last time the ending totally got me.
Them
Then I'll stamp it today so you get a head start.
Lin
Perfect, thanks. And this returned one is definitely not overdue.
Them
You're safe—by one day. The book nearly finished you first.
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Look up
✓ look you upstaff checks your record
works even without your card
Due date
✓ due backmust be returned then
useful for asking the return date
Can't promise
✓ No promises.can't promise that.
casual way to avoid a promise
Late
✓ overduepast the due date
Not: over time
Quick answers
Look up: what to say in English
Say “look you up” — staff checks your record. works even without your card.
Due date: what to say in English
Say “due back” — must be returned then. useful for asking the return date.
Can't promise: what to say in English
Say “No promises.” — can't promise that. casual way to avoid a promise.
Late: what to say in English
Say “overdue” — past the due date. Not: over time.