I recently got transferred from Mumbai, back to Gurgaon. And for the 3 years I was in the city, 2 years were spent with Librarywala.com. I had come across their ad across a banner while walking with my friend in Chembur, and got excited to know a bit about the concept. What caught my attention was the sign board, as it read - "Rent books starting at Rs. 79!"
As a marketer, such things don’t leave your head easily, and I thought of giving them a call and making my verification about their presence, services etc. On calling, I received a confident customer care response answering my vast number of queries around plans, how to rent books, what kind of books they stack, etc.
Out of a reason to give a start-up a chance, I decided to try the service for a month and went in for the lowest available plan. Picked up one of the good books and ordered for it. Within 3 days, I received a prompt call followed by the delivery. That really got my first impression right about the company.
The book received was also in perfect condition, and I did have a thorough read for the small price I paid. And once that thing worked out, I graduated to taking up a Rs. 139 plan which suited me appropriately. From there on, I was a regular called requesting books and ordering them.
The best thing I liked about these guys was their flexibility in delivering books either at home/office. They dint mind adjusting or shuffles in general which I have appreciation for. And neither were they too rigid as a team. Except one or two instances where I felt someone be a bit rude, their customer care is always very decent and good to talk to.
Karan - one of their customer care people is still one of my favorites and I have been in touch with him through Facebook! I wish Indian companies had more of dedicated people like him and they could make things grow.
But over a period of time, I haven’t seen librarywala move forward into more cities. I did have this discussion with Mr. Hiten, owner of the company, and I hope madly that they come to Gurgaon as well!
For now, I am missing out on my hobby because of the laziness and lack of time which librarywala met with ease. So, those of you in Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, must try these guys once!
Tc