build a library

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "build a library" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of creating a collection of resources, such as books, software, or data, for a specific purpose. Example: "In order to enhance our research capabilities, we need to build a library of academic journals and articles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In Sherman County, however, the arrangement has helped build a library and two new city halls, sewers and a bridge.

The New York Times

(At one point, while undergoing chemotherapy, she secures a million-dollar donation to build a library in Kabul).

The New Yorker

During the 1970's, two proposals to build a library were voted down, said Nancy Benchimol, the library's president.

The New York Times

The experience compelled them to raise money in order to be able to build a library for the school.

The Guardian - Money

Does it make sense to build a library designed to hold eight million books at a moment when so much information is moving from printed to digital form?

The New Yorker

Recent donations have enabled the school to build a library, which is starved of books, but there is no local postal service for American friends to send books.

The New York Times

His goal is to build a library of knowledge that can be passed on from one generation of engineers and vehicles to the next.

The New York Times

Devotion is further fostered in the book's closing exhortation: "If you haven't already started to build a library of your very own, begin to do so at once".

The New York Times - Arts

Monky (Jo'burg) I would build a library, because right now we have to walk a long way for the library and some entertainment.

The Guardian

You could build a library just from the memoirs, novels and stories by Turkish intellectuals and journalists who have ended up in prison.

The Guardian - Books

By the 1890s, he decided to build a library on a par with the great European collections, a goal he unequivocally achieved.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical contexts, "build a library" can refer to creating a collection of reusable code or data structures, so ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "build a library" is acceptable in many settings, avoid using it excessively in very casual conversations where simpler alternatives like "start a collection" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "build a library" functions as a verb phrase. Grammatically, it describes the action of creating or establishing a collection of resources, often books, but also applicable to software or data. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "build a library" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to describe the creation of a collection of resources, whether physical or digital. As Ludwig points out, it is commonly used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge. While alternatives like "establish a library" or "create a collection" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Be mindful of overusing it in overly casual settings. The phrase’s widespread presence in authoritative sources underscores its acceptance and utility in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

construct a library

Replaces "build" with "construct", emphasizing a more formal or technical approach to the creation of the library.

establish a library

Focuses on the act of founding or setting up a library, highlighting the initiation aspect.

create a library

Uses "create" instead of "build", suggesting the library is being brought into existence from scratch.

develop a library

Implies a gradual process of growth and improvement in the creation of the library.

assemble a library

Suggests gathering existing materials to form a library, rather than constructing a new physical space.

compile a library

Emphasizes the systematic collection and organization of materials into a library.

form a library

Similar to "create", but with a slightly more structured or organized connotation.

put together a library

A more informal way of saying "assemble a library", suggesting a less formal approach.

grow a library

Highlights the expansion and enrichment of a library over time.

curate a library

Emphasizes the careful selection and arrangement of items in a library, suggesting expert knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "build a library" in a sentence?

You can use "build a library" to describe the process of creating a collection of resources, such as "The school is raising funds to "build a library" for its students".

What can I say instead of "build a library"?

Alternatives include "establish a library", "create a collection", or "develop a resource center", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "building a library" or should I use another phrase?

"Building a library" is grammatically correct and refers to the ongoing process of creating a library. Other options could be "constructing a library" or "developing a library", each with a slightly different emphasis.

What is the difference between "build a library" and "acquire a library"?

"Build a library" refers to the process of creating a library from the ground up, while "acquire a library" implies obtaining an already existing collection or library.