The topic of describing a memorable book borrowed from a library is a popular one in IELTS Speaking tests. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to discuss personal experiences, express opinions, and showcase their vocabulary related to literature and reading habits. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about reading and libraries. Here’s a sample question with a suggested answer:

Q: How often do you visit libraries?

A: To be honest, I don’t visit libraries as frequently as I used to. These days, I tend to rely more on online resources and e-books for my reading needs. However, I still make an effort to visit the local library at least once a month to browse through physical books and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. There’s something irreplaceable about the experience of being surrounded by books and fellow readers.

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Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Memorable Book You Borrowed From A Library
You should say:

• What the book was about
• When you borrowed it
• Why you chose this book
• And explain why it was memorable for you

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

I’d like to talk about a remarkable book I borrowed from my university library a couple of years ago. The book in question was “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, a philosophical novel that follows the journey of a young shepherd named Santiago as he travels from Spain to Egypt in search of a treasure.

I vividly recall borrowing this book during my final year of university when I was grappling with some major life decisions. The book caught my eye because of its intriguing title and the fact that several of my friends had raved about it. I was also drawn to its premise of self-discovery and following one’s dreams, which resonated with my own situation at the time.

What made this book truly memorable was its profound impact on my perspective. Coelho’s masterful storytelling and thought-provoking ideas about personal legends and the importance of listening to one’s heart left an indelible impression on me. The book’s central message – that the universe conspires to help those who pursue their dreams – was both inspiring and empowering.

Moreover, the timing of reading this book was serendipitous. It came into my life at a moment when I was questioning my future path, and its wisdom provided clarity and courage. The book’s emphasis on embracing the journey rather than fixating on the destination helped me reframe my approach to life’s challenges.

In retrospect, borrowing “The Alchemist” from the library was a pivotal moment in my personal growth. It not only entertained me with its engaging narrative but also offered valuable insights that continue to guide me to this day. This experience underscores the transformative power of literature and the unexpected treasures one can find within the shelves of a library.

Follow-up Questions

Q: Do you think libraries will become less important in the future due to digital books?

A (Band 6-7):
I think libraries might become less popular in the future because of e-books. Many people now prefer reading on their devices because it’s more convenient. However, libraries are still important for people who can’t afford to buy books or don’t have internet access. They also provide a quiet place to study and do research.

A (Band 8-9):
While digital books are undoubtedly gaining traction, I believe libraries will continue to play a vital role in society, albeit in an evolving capacity. Libraries offer more than just access to books; they serve as community hubs, providing resources, workshops, and spaces for collaboration. Moreover, they bridge the digital divide by offering internet access and technology to those who might not have it at home. Libraries are likely to adapt to the digital age by incorporating more e-resources and digital services, thus remaining relevant and indispensable in the future.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Q: How do you think reading habits have changed in recent years?

A (Band 6-7):
I think reading habits have changed a lot recently. People are reading more on their phones and tablets instead of physical books. They also tend to read shorter articles and social media posts rather than long books. However, I believe many people still enjoy reading traditional books, especially for relaxation.

A (Band 8-9):
Reading habits have undergone a significant transformation in recent years, primarily due to technological advancements. There’s been a noticeable shift towards digital formats, with e-books and audiobooks gaining popularity. This change has led to more fragmented reading patterns, with people often opting for shorter forms of content like blog posts or articles.

However, it’s not all about digital. There’s also been a resurgence of interest in physical books, particularly in genres like self-help and personal development. Additionally, social media has paradoxically both decreased attention spans and created new communities of readers who share recommendations and discuss books online.

Another interesting trend is the rise of “binge-reading”, similar to binge-watching TV series, where readers consume entire book series in short periods. This reflects a change in how we consume narratives across different media.

Despite these changes, I believe the core essence of reading – as a means of learning, escapism, and personal growth – remains unchanged. The medium may have evolved, but the fundamental human desire for stories and knowledge continues to drive reading habits.

Describe a restaurant you would recommend to friends

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

1. Philosophical novel /ˌfɪləˈsɒfɪkəl ˈnɒvəl/ (noun phrase): A book that explores philosophical ideas through storytelling.
   Example: “The Alchemist” is often described as a philosophical novel due to its exploration of life’s meaning.

2. Grapple with /ˈɡræpəl wɪð/ (phrasal verb): To struggle with or work hard to deal with a difficult problem or situation.
   Example: Many students grapple with the decision of what career path to choose.

3. Rave about /reɪv əˈbaʊt/ (phrasal verb): To speak with great enthusiasm about something.
   Example: My colleagues have been raving about this new restaurant in town.

4. Resonate with /ˈrezəneɪt wɪð/ (phrasal verb): To evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief.
   Example: The author’s description of homesickness really resonated with me as an international student.

5. Serendipitous /ˌserənˈdɪpɪtəs/ (adjective): Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way.
   Example: It was a serendipitous encounter that led to my current job opportunity.

Library shelves filled with colorful books

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a memorable book:

1. Develop your ideas fully: Don’t just mention facts about the book; explain why it was memorable and how it affected you.

2. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate topic-specific words and idiomatic expressions naturally in your speech.

3. Maintain fluency: Practice speaking about books and reading habits to improve your ability to discuss the topic without hesitation.

4. Show coherence: Structure your answer logically, using appropriate linking words to connect your ideas smoothly.

5. Demonstrate critical thinking: In Part 3, try to analyze the topic from different perspectives and provide thoughtful insights.

Remember, regular practice and exposure to a variety of books and reading materials will help you feel more confident when discussing this topic in your IELTS Speaking test.