Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I join the library?
   a) Contact us by email, requesting to join the library. You can also request for a book at the same time. Click here for the contact information.
   b) An initial payment of Rs 200/- is to be made as a refundable deposit. This amount must be paid before borrowing the first book.


2. How do I borrow or return a book?
   Borrowing and returning of books is to be done outside A mess during the Library timings. The Library timings are at the top right of the page.


3. Can I borrow more than one book at a time?
   YES, as many as you want - just make additional deposit of Rs. 200 for every additional book that you feel like taking.


4. When do I pay for the book?
   You can pay for the book when you return the book.


5. What are the reading charges for a book?
   The books are divided into three categories.
   The fast moving books include most fiction books and are charged at Rs 2/- per day.
   The second category is that of the comics, and these are charged Rs4/- per day.
   The third category is the non-fiction books, and some of the heavier reading, which we lend for 2 weeks and charge Rs 15/- for it.
   The books of the first 2 categories will not be charged for Sundays.


6. For how long may I keep a book?
   You may keep a book for as long as you like. Please note the reading charges are as explained in the previous question. The third category books can be renewed for a further 2 weeks.


7. How do I renew a book?
   You do not need to explicitly renew a book. If you keep a book longer than the borrowing period, it is considered as renewed.


8. What about lost or damaged books?
   Penalty for Lost Books: Lost books will result in a penalty of TWICE the value of the book plus the regular borrowing fee. You may choose to replace the book within 10 days or pay the penalty.
   Penalty for damaged books: Penalty imposed for damaged books starts from 20% the book value. The actual penalty amount will be decided by the librarian. If the book is unfit to be lent out, then it will have the same penalty as a lost book.


9. May i contribute books to the library?
   Yes. We would be delighted if you could donate books or even loan them for a period that you feel is right. It would help us get many more books out to IIScians, which is our basic idea.