When one thinks of a library, the image that springs to mind is rows of shelves with dusty books, a musty smell, dark corners with a single light bulb hanging from the ceiling and probably a middle-aged librarian. But times have changed… a bit. Now you can borrow books online!
The Ilovereadin’ Library is the brainchild of Amrutash Misra and Sahil Gore. It was their love for books that led them to start something innovative to keep alive the habit of reading. Since its inception almost five years ago, the library has been successful in striking a chord with children.
“Children tend to tell others about the books they have read and discuss it with friends,” says Amrutash. “Word got around this way and our membership circle has increased considerably. It’s purely on word-of-mouth publicity and the members’ loyalty that the library has become what it is today.” From children and young adult books to all-time classics, Ilovereadin’ Library caters to a number of readers with a taste for different genres.
Get online
How the library works is simple. If you’re borrowing books online, all you need is an e-mail ID and a payment option — meaning your parents’ credit/debit card details! After registering by creating an account, choose one from the three-month, six-month, nine-month and one-year plans. You can borrow as many books (two at a time) as you wish during this period without worrying about due dates and late fees. Make a queue of books you would like to read and Ilovereadin’ will take care of the rest. Your books will be delivered at home. Readers can also request for books that are not already available or easy to come by.
With television and social networks taking up most of the time, there is less time to read.
Ilovereadin’ has a special programme in schools called Book Lover’s Program for Schools (BLPS) that encourages reading through storytelling, reading sessions, debates and other such activities. Members also get a gift every year for their continued support to the library. All the more reason to sign-up, don’t you think?
If you aren’t tech-savvy or don’t have the option to make online payment, you can also call the library and order the books you need to borrow. Ilovereadin’ Library is currently in operation in Chennai and Coimbatore.
Now you don’t need to hound your parents to drive you to the library when they get home after work having battled their way through heavy traffic. A few clicks or a phone call is all you need and the books will come to you!
For more information, visit >www.iloveread.in
You can also check out their Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/iloveread
