Terms & Conditions

1. About MaktabaBooks

MaktabaBooks connects lenders and borrowers within Singapore to facilitate the lending of physical books. We act solely as an intermediary and are not a party to any lending arrangement between users. Users transact directly with one another at their own discretion.

2. Eligibility

MaktabaBooks is intended for users aged 18 and above. By registering an account, you confirm that you are at least 18 years old. Users under 18 must be represented by an adult who accepts these terms on their behalf and takes full responsibility for all activity on the account.

MaktabaBooks reserves the right to suspend or remove any account where a user is found to be under 18 without appropriate adult oversight.

3. User Accounts

You must register an account to list or borrow books. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account and for all activity that occurs under it. You agree to provide accurate information and keep it up to date.

MaktabaBooks reserves the right to suspend or permanently remove any user from the platform at its sole discretion and without obligation to provide reasons.

4. Listing Books

All listings are subject to admin approval before becoming visible to borrowers. MaktabaBooks reserves the right to decline or remove any listing at its sole discretion.

Lenders may edit or remove their listing at any time, provided no active borrowing arrangement is in progress. Where a borrowing arrangement is active, the listing may only be removed once the book has been returned and the return confirmed.

By listing a book, you confirm that you are the rightful owner and have the authority to lend it.

5. Book Condition

Lenders are responsible for accurately describing the condition of their book at the time of listing. Borrowers should expect the book to be in the condition described. The following definitions apply:

• Like New — The book is in pristine condition, as if freshly purchased. No marks, creases, folded pages, stains or signs of use whatsoever.
• Good — The book shows some signs of previous reading. Minor creases on the spine, slight wear on the cover or edges, and occasional pencil marks are acceptable. The book remains fully readable and intact.
• Well Read — The book has been well-loved and shows significant signs of use. This may include a cracked spine, noticeable cover wear, yellowing pages or minor staining. The book remains readable but borrowers should expect visible signs of age and use.

6. Borrowing Books

To borrow books on MaktabaBooks, a one-time SGD $10 platform access fee is required. This fee unlocks borrowing privileges permanently and does not constitute payment for any book.

The standard lending period is 27 days from the date the physical exchange of the book is confirmed by the lender in the app. Borrowers are expected to return the book within this period. If both parties agree to an extension, the lender may update the due date directly in the app.

Borrowers are responsible for the safekeeping of borrowed books for the duration of the lending period, including during any delivery or transit arranged by the borrower. Books must be returned in the same condition they were received.

If a borrower is unable to return a book by the due date, they must inform the lender as soon as possible and arrange a return date promptly.

7. Damage, Disputes and Platform Access

In the event a book is returned damaged or not returned at all, the borrower bears full responsibility. MaktabaBooks will facilitate a conversation between both parties to seek a resolution. We are not obligated to take sides or make binding decisions.

Disputes between lenders and borrowers should be raised with MaktabaBooks at hello@maktababooks.com. MaktabaBooks will endeavour to assist in good faith but cannot guarantee any particular outcome.

MaktabaBooks reserves the right to remove any user — whether lender or borrower — from the platform at its sole discretion, and to retain the platform access fee without refund, in cases of damage, misuse, non-return of books, misrepresentation, or any conduct deemed harmful to other users or the platform.

8. Limitation of Liability

MaktabaBooks is not liable for any loss, damage, or dispute arising from transactions between lenders and borrowers. We do not guarantee the condition, accuracy of description, or availability of any listed book.

To the fullest extent permitted by Singapore law, MaktabaBooks shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of this platform.

9. Privacy and Communication

When a borrow request is accepted, both the lender's and borrower's email addresses are shared with each other for the purpose of arranging the book exchange. By using this platform, you consent to this sharing.

Users agree to keep MaktabaBooks (hello@maktababooks.com) in the CC of all email communications relating to lending arrangements made through the platform. Removing MaktabaBooks from email threads may affect our ability to assist you in the event of a dispute.

Users are reminded to exercise caution when communicating with other users. Please do not share more personal information than is necessary for the lending arrangement. MaktabaBooks is not responsible for any consequences arising from the voluntary disclosure of additional personal information.

10. Changes to These Terms

MaktabaBooks reserves the right to update these Terms & Conditions at any time. Continued use of the platform after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the revised terms. We will endeavour to notify users of material changes via email.

11. Governing Law

These Terms & Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Singapore. Any disputes arising from these terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Singapore.

12. Contact Us

If you have any questions about these Terms & Conditions or need to raise a concern, please contact us via the Contact & Report form.