Words (Core Vocabulary)
- community centre / recreation centre / leisure centre
- drop-in / registration / waitlist
- membership / pass / concession rate (subsidized)
- fitness class / lane swim / public skate / childcare program
- schedule / timetable / session / term
- library card / borrower account / PIN
- hold / place a hold / pickup notice
- renew / due date / overdue / fine (many libraries are fine-free)
- eBook / audiobook / database / streaming
- makerspace / study room / meeting room / booking
- program guide / events calendar / workshop
- ID / proof of address (for cards or rates)
Phrases (Ask, register, book)
- How do I register for swim lessons? Is there a waitlist?
- Do you offer concession rates or low-income passes?
- Is this class drop-in or pre-registration only?
- Could I book a study room for two hours tomorrow?
- I’d like to get a library card—what ID do I need?
- How do I place a hold and how long do you keep items?
- Could you help me renew these books? They’re due next week.
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- **I’m new to the area—**where can I find the program guide and events calendar?
- Is there drop-in basketball tonight, or do I need to register online?
- I’d like to book a meeting room on Saturday from 1–3 p.m.
- I placed holds—could you tell me which branch they’ll arrive at?
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Registration & access
- create an account
- register for a class
- join a waitlist
- purchase a pass
- qualify for a concession rate
Library use
- get a library card
- place a hold
- receive a pickup notice
- renew items
- book a study room
- access databases/ebooks
Scheduling
- check the timetable
- view the program guide
- cancel a booking
- attend a workshop
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Many libraries are fine-free for overdue returns but still expect on-time returns; renew if needed.
- Community centres often offer concession rates for residents—ask about eligibility.
- Respect time slots (lane swim, study rooms) and clean equipment after use.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Register: “How do I register for yoga—is it drop-in or pre-registered?”
- Library card: “I’d like a library card—what ID and proof of address do you need?”
- Room booking: “Could I book a study room tomorrow 2–4 p.m.?”