At a Brazilian Library: Borrow, Renew, and Return Books
Use these phrases to ask where a book is, learn whether borrowing is allowed, and check how to renew or return library materials.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Biblioteca means library, while livraria means bookstore. This distinction helps you find the right place. In a library, you can ask whether a title is available and where a section is located.
Ask where to find a book
The word exemplar can mean a copy of a book. If you have an author’s name or a title, say it slowly or write it down so the librarian can search the catalog accurately.
Vocês têm este livro no acervo?
Do you have this book in the collection?
Onde fica a seção de literatura?
Where is the literature section?
Posso consultar o catálogo?
Can I check the catalog?
Check the borrowing rules and due date
Borrowing rules differ by library. Ask whether you need a carteirinha (library card), how many items you can take, and when they are due. Devolver is the verb for returning an item; renovar is to renew a loan.
A data de devolução is the return date. If you need more time, ask about renewal before that date and confirm whether the request can be made online or in person.
O que preciso para fazer uma carteirinha?
What do I need to get a library card?
Qual é a data de devolução?
What is the return date?
Dá para renovar o empréstimo pelo site?
Can I renew the loan on the website?
Put it into practice
Use biblioteca for a library and livraria for a bookstore. Ask about the card, loan period, return date, and renewal method because each institution sets its own rules.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “What do I need to get a library card”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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