Speedrun mission · Bologna University Library

Bologna Library Access

Can you get into the library before your study group?

Level A2–B190 s limit5 goals
▶ Play this missionFree · 90 seconds · voice or text

You're at a university library in Bologna, but your student card won't open the entrance gate. Your study group is meeting soon, and the line behind you is growing. You need to explain what's wrong to the library assistant and find a way inside without holding everyone up.

When you're in a hurry, even a simple question can be hard to put into English. In this free Speedrun Mission, you have 90 seconds to name your course, say when you need to enter, ask for a temporary pass and find out where to fix your card.

What you need to say

  1. Explain the card problem
    • “My student card won't scan at the gate.”
    • “The gate doesn't open when I use my card.”
    • “I can't get in because my card is not working.”
  2. Name your course
    • “I study economics.”
    • “I'm studying architecture.”
    • “My course is computer science.”
  3. Say when you need to enter
    • “My study group meets at three.”
    • “I need to get in now.”
    • “I need access this afternoon.”
  4. Ask for a temporary pass
    • “Could I have a temporary pass?”
    • “Can I get in without my card today?”
    • “Is there another way to enter?”
  5. Ask where to fix your card
    • “Where is the card office?”
    • “Where can I get my card fixed?”
    • “Who can give me a replacement card?”

Sample answers — your own words count too.

Key vocabulary

student card
a card showing you're a student
entrance gate
the barrier you pass through to enter
scan
to read a card electronically
library assistant
a staff member who helps library users
study group
students meeting to study together
course
the subject or degree you're studying
temporary pass
short-term permission to enter
access
permission or ability to enter
card office
the place that handles student cards

Tips for this situation

  • Describe what happens at the gate: "My student card won't scan" or "The gate doesn't open when I use it."
  • Keep your course answer simple: "I study architecture" is enough.
  • Give a clear time frame: "My study group meets at three" or "I need to get in now."
  • Ask directly but politely: "Could I have a temporary pass while my card is being checked?"
  • Before you leave the desk, ask: "Where can I get my card fixed?"

How Speedrun Mission works

  1. 1Tap play and sign up in seconds — it's free.
  2. 2The library assistant speaks English; answer by holding the mic (or type).
  3. 3Cover every goal before the 90-second clock runs out, then share your time.

Frequently asked questions

How do I say my student card isn't working at the library?

Say what the card fails to do, rather than just saying there's a problem. Try "My student card won't scan at the gate" or "The gate doesn't open when I use my card." Either sentence gives the assistant a clear starting point for helping you.

How do I ask for a temporary library pass in English?

You can ask, "Could I have a temporary pass?" If you aren't sure passes are available, try "Is there another way to enter while my card isn't working?" Both questions are polite and leave room for the assistant to explain your options.

How do I tell the library assistant I need to get in soon?

Give a specific time if you know it: "My study group meets at three." If you don't, say "I need to get in now" or "I need access this afternoon." A short, clear answer helps the assistant understand why you're asking for help right away.

How do I ask where to fix my student card in English?

Try "Where can I get my student card fixed?" You can also ask "Where is the card office?" if you think there's a dedicated desk. Ask this even if you get a temporary pass, so you know what to do about the card later.

Can you get into the library before your study group?

▶ Play this mission

More missions

Lisbon Hotel LockoutA2–B1 · 95 s limitDublin Document PostA2–B1 · 100 s limitManchester Train Ticket DeskA2–B1 · 95 s limitEdinburgh Clinic BookingA2–B1 · 80 s limitLondon Jacket ReturnA2–B1 · 100 s limitJFK Passport ControlA2–B2 · 90 s limit
All missions →