When was the last time you went to your local library?
You may be asked about libraries on IELTS Speaking.
This could also be the topic of your Task 2 question.
Today you’ll learn high-scoring phrases to tackle these questions.
#1: Cornerstone of the community
Something that is an essential and important part of a community.
- “The local library is a cornerstone of the community because it provides free educational resources for residents.”
- “I believe public schools and libraries remain cornerstones of the community, even in the digital era.”
#2: Bridge the digital divide
This means reducing the gap between people who have access to technology and those who do not.
It is flexible and can also be used when discussing technology in general.
- “Libraries help bridge the digital divide by offering free internet access.”
- “Government programs can bridge the digital divide by providing affordable devices to low-income families.”
#3: Lifelong learning
This is the process of continually gaining knowledge throughout one’s life.
- “Many adults visit libraries because they value lifelong learning.”
- “My grandfather is committed to lifelong learning and regularly attends educational workshops.”
#4: Serve a broader purpose
- “Modern libraries serve a broader purpose than simply lending books.”
- “Public parks serve a broader purpose by promoting both recreation and community interaction.”
This means having a wider function than people might initially think.
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IELTS Speaking Part 1 sample answer
Question: Do you ever visit libraries?
Answer: Yes, I take my kids often, especially in the summer. The local library where I live always runs a reading program for children that has been instrumental in helping my kids stay off screen! They incentivize kids to read by providing prizes they earn for minutes read. Frankly, libraries are a cornerstone of the community because they don’t just provide access to books, but also quiet study spaces for people of all ages.
Take note of how the phrase “cornerstone of the community.”
Notice also the use of the verbs “be instrumental” and “incentivize.”
These are band 9 verbs that will boost vocabulary scores.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 sample answer
Question: Do public libraries still have value today?
Answer: Absolutely. Although information is readily available online, libraries still serve a broader purpose. They provide community programs, educational workshops, and opportunities for lifelong learning. In addition, not everyone has equal access to technology, so libraries bridge the digital divide by offering essential services that many people rely on. Without a doubt, I believe they will remain relevant in the future.
Notice how the strongest answers don’t simply say, “Libraries are good.”
Instead:
- Explain why libraries matter
- Use topic-specific vocabulary
- Connect ideas to larger social issues such as education, technology, and equality
- Support opinions with examples
Takeaway
You need to be ready to talk about libraries on IELTS!
This might be especially difficult if you don’t visit a library often.
Questions like this require topic-specific vocabulary.
Practice talking about the importance of libraries using today’s phrases.
Provide your own answers to today’s sample questions so you are ready for this topic.
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What questions do you have from today’s episode?
Please leave a comment below.
