As the owner of so many books, I’ve often been the person that people come to for borrowing them. That is all very well; I’m really glad that you want to read, especially something that I enjoyed too. We can discuss the story, the characters; or you can tell me that you didn’t like it at all. You’re most welcome to do all of that. But you are certainly not welcome to spoil my books. Spoiling includes wrinkled pages/cover, stains on the pages, and the like.

A Kindergarten lesson in taking care of books.

But I’m giving you the benefit of doubt. Perhaps you’re not sure how to take care of books? No worries then. The following is a step-by-step procedure that will ensure that the borrowed book can be returned in its original, pristine condition:

• Keep the book in a shelf (preferably closed to avoid dust).
• Do not keep heavier books/other items on top of the book.
• Do not carry the book in your already overflowing bag.
• Do not mark the pages using pen/pencil/sketch pens etc.
• Do not fold the pages of the book in lieu of a bookmark.
• Always, always, always use a bookmark.
• Keep the book away from windows to save it from dust, rain, wind.
• Do not keep the book open and turned upside down.
• Keep the book away from drinks/food.
• Ensure that your pet/infant does not try to read the book.

If the book lender is Akshita though, here are some additional guidelines:

• Make keeping the book safe your biggest priority in life.
• Take care of the book as you would take care of your child.
• Return the book on time, i.e., within a month (More if the book is bigger).
• Do NOT wait for Akshita to remind you three times.
• Do NOT dare tell Akshita that you did not read the book after you return it two months late.
• Do NOT make fun of Akshita’s book-caring mania requirements.

I hope I make myself clear.