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Free everyday English listening practice for daily life: listen to Mel and Josh, read along with the transcript, learn the key words and check your understanding with a short quiz.
1. Before you listen: key words
Press 🔊 to hear each word or phrase. You'll hear all of them in the conversation.
- library card a card that lets you borrow books and use library services
- borrow take something and give it back later
- fill in a form write your details in the spaces on a form
- ID a card or document that shows who you are
- PIN a short secret number you use with a card
- due date the last day to return something
- renew keep a library book for longer
- put a hold on ask the library to keep a book for you when it comes back
2. Listen to the episode
Press Play. The line being spoken lights up so you can read along. Start with Slow if you're a beginner, then try Normal. For a challenge, hide the transcript the first time you listen.
Mel: Hi, welcome to the Listening Room. I'm Mel.
Josh: And I'm Josh. Today we're at the library. I want to borrow some books, but first I need a library card.
Mel: A library card lets you borrow books and use other services. At many public libraries, joining is free.
Josh: At the front desk, you can say, 'Hi, I'd like to join the library, please,' or 'How do I get a library card?'
Mel: The staff member will usually ask you to fill in a form. Sometimes it's on paper, and sometimes it's online.
Josh: The form asks for your details: your name, your date of birth, your address, your phone number and your email.
Mel: They may also ask for ID with your address on it, like a driver's licence or a letter from your bank.
Josh: So it's a good idea to call or check the library's website first. Then you know what to bring.
Mel: Then you get your card, and you might choose a PIN. A PIN is a short secret number you use with your card.
Josh: Now, borrowing. Take your books to the desk, or use the self-checkout machine. Just scan your card and then the books.
Mel: Ask, 'How long can I borrow these for?' Every library has its own rules.
Josh: When the time is up, you return the book. The last day is called the due date. It's often printed on your receipt.
Mel: If you need more time, ask, 'Can I renew this?' Renew means you keep it for longer. You can often renew online, too.
Josh: And if someone else has the book you want, you can say, 'Can I put a hold on this?' or 'Can I reserve it?'
Mel: Libraries have more than books. Many have free wi-fi, computers, printers, and events like story time for children.
Josh: Some also have conversation groups for people learning English. Just ask, 'Do you have any English conversation groups?'
Mel: That's a great way to practise and meet people.
Josh: So: ask to join, fill in the form, bring ID, check the due date, and renew if you need more time.
Mel: Thanks for listening. Enjoy your books, Josh!
Josh: Thanks, Mel. See you next time!
3. Check your understanding
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4. Shadow the hosts
Shadowing means repeating a line straight after you hear it, copying the speed, stress and rhythm. Press 🔁 next to any line in the transcript, then press 🎤 and say it. Your browser shows what it heard. Try 3 to 5 lines a day.
5. Talk about it
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Keep learning: Everyday English lesson: filling in forms and giving your details.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a transcript for this English listening practice?
Yes. The full transcript is on this page and each line lights up as it's read. You can also print a worksheet with the transcript, questions and answers.
What English level is this episode?
Beginner (about A1–A2). Beginners can use the Slow speed and read along.
Which words will I learn in this episode?
library card, borrow, fill in a form, ID, PIN, due date, renew, put a hold on. Each one has audio and a simple meaning.
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