Asking about an overdue library book in Spanish

The idea

Say the loan deadline ended, ask about a possible late charge and ask whether renewal is an alternative.

Examples

• Quiero devolver este libro.I want to return this book.
• El plazo terminó ayer.The deadline ended yesterday.
• ¿Hay algún cargo por devolverlo tarde?Is there a charge for returning it late?
• ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta?Can I pay by card?
• ¿Puedo renovarlo en vez de devolverlo?Can I renew it instead of returning it?
• Gracias por aclararlo.Thank you for clarifying.

Watch out

Library policies differ; do not assume a charge exists or that renewal is permitted after the deadline.

Try it yourself

1. Say you want to return the book. Quiero ___ este libro. (devolver / comprar)

   Show answer or example answer

   devolver

   Devolver names returning the book.

2. Ask whether there is a late charge. ¿Hay algún ___ por devolverlo tarde? (cargo / horario)

   Show answer or example answer

   cargo

   Cargo asks whether there is a charge.

3. Ask whether you can renew it instead. ¿Puedo ___ en vez de devolverlo? (renovarlo / venderlo)

   Show answer or example answer

   renovarlo

   Renovarlo asks whether the loan can be renewed instead.

Use it today

Explain that a book was due yesterday and ask library staff about returning or renewing it.