11 September,2017 02:50 PM IST | Mumbai | Shraddha Uchil
There's a new open library in Mumbai, and its curated collection is unlike anything you'll find in a conventional bookstore
"I began reading non-fiction only a couple of years ago. The more I read, the more I found myself recommending these titles to friends," says Satyajit Roy, founder of The Open Library Project, which he recently launched out of his office in Worli.
Soon, his friends were borrowing books from him, which made him realise that many others might be interested in the titles that lined his bookshelf. "So, I started posting pictures of the book covers on social media. As of today, nearly 15 people have dropped by to borrow books," says the 31-year-old businessman.
Satyajit Roy
The library stocks over 100 non-fiction and business-oriented books that people can borrow for free for up to 30 days. Roy has even created a website listing all the books in his possession, from tomes on the lives of Michelangelo and Picasso, to leadership lessons from Elon Musk and Simon Sinek. Borrowers are also urged to leave a short review of the titles to help others decide if they are worth their time.
When he launched the project, Roy had asked people to donate books, too. "I thought I would get a few, but, we receive three cartons every day. I'm building another bookshelf, and I have hired a librarian to help," he laughs.
Not all the donated books make their way in, though. Roy selects the ones that fit the criteria, and sends the rest back. "You will find fiction titles everywhere, but many titles here aren't easily found in a bookstore."
Time: 10 am to 8 pm (Monday to Friday)
At: Unit No G-41, Madhu Estate, PB Marg, Worli
Log on to: openlibrary.in
Call: 8779702821
