A1noun1K

Library

UK /["/ˈlaɪbrəri//ˈlaɪbri/"]/US /["/ˈlaɪbreri/"]/

Definition

a building in which collections of books, newspapers, etc. and sometimes films and recorded music are kept for people to read, study or borrow

In simple words: A place where you can borrow books and read.

Examples

  • I went to the library to borrow some books.
  • The library is a quiet place where you can study.
  • She works in a public library that has many resources.
  • The library opens at 9 AM every day.
  • You can find a variety of subjects in the library.

Usage notes

Used in both spoken and written English to refer to a building or space with books available for public use. Suitable for formal and informal contexts. Avoid using in casual slang.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'librarian' in a 'library' quietly organizing books.

Collocations

  • large
  • small
  • excellent
  • have
  • go to
  • use
  • have something
  • hold something
  • book
  • record
  • shelf
  • at a/​the library
  • in a/​the library
  • large
  • small
  • excellent
  • have
  • go to
  • use
  • have something
  • hold something
  • book
  • record
  • shelf
  • at a/​the library
  • in a/​the library
  • considerable
  • extensive
  • huge
  • have
  • possess
  • amass
  • library of
  • considerable
  • extensive
  • huge
  • have
  • possess
  • amass
  • library of

Synonyms

  • bookstore
  • reading room
  • repository
  • media center

Antonyms

  • cafe
  • gym
  • workshop

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'bookstore' - a bookstore sells books, while a library lends them.
  • Using 'library' as a verb, which is incorrect in English.
  • Mispronunciation, often misplacing the stress on the syllables.