At a University Library in Brazil: Borrowing Books in Portuguese
Learn library vocabulary and practical questions for locating a book, checking availability, and confirming the return date in Brazilian Portuguese.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Biblioteca is library and acervo refers to a collection. If you know the title or author, ask whether the book is in the collection. If you are looking for a topic, ask which section might help.
Find a book or section
Libraries organize materials differently, so use the catalog or ask staff to confirm the shelf or digital location. A book listed online may be checked out or available only in another format.
Você sabe onde fica a seção de linguística?
Do you know where the linguistics section is?
Este livro está disponível para empréstimo?
Is this book available to borrow?
Ask about borrowing and return dates
Empréstimo means a loan service and devolver is to return something. Ask which student identification is needed and when the item must be returned. Loan periods and renewal rules vary, so confirm the library's current policy.
If you need more time, ask before the due date whether renovação is possible. The item may have a renewal limit or be requested by another student.
Qual é o prazo para devolver este livro?
What is the deadline to return this book?
Posso renovar o empréstimo pelo sistema?
Can I renew the loan through the system?
Get help with digital resources
A university library may provide journals, e-books, or research databases. Ask whether access requires a campus account or another sign-in method. Access can depend on the institution and the resource's license.
If a page does not open, describe the resource and message you see. Staff may point you to the right portal or explain whether remote access is available.
Como acesso as revistas digitais da universidade?
How do I access the university's digital journals?
Preciso entrar com minha conta institucional?
Do I need to sign in with my institutional account?
Put it into practice
Give the title or subject, ask about borrowing and due dates, and confirm access rules with library staff.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “Can I renew the loan through the system”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.