“What if these walls could talk?” They would tell tales of revolution, scholarship, and the quiet rustle of turning pages within the Peking University Library. Here at Peking University Library, we stand before a place of immense historical and cultural significance. It is more than just a repository of books. Peking University Library is a living testament to China’s intellectual journey.
The Peking University Library’s story began in 1898. It was initially a book collection for the Imperial University of Peking. Influential scholar Liang Qichao envisioned a space to gather important books from home and abroad. He wanted it to benefit all kinds of readers. He saw it as a broad display of the world’s ways and spirit. Early regulations ensured exemplary management.
Before the East and West buildings, space was limited. Books were scattered making it hard to find them. In 1975, the west building, now the “old library,” was built. It symbolized recovery after the Cultural Revolution. Generous donations from Li Ka-shing, a Hong Kong industrialist, allowed them to build the new east building in 1998. This addition connected to the old one. It expanded the library’s floor area. Modern designs gave the Peking University Library a new look.
Today, the Peking University Library boasts a facial verification system. It saves students the hassle of swiping cards. Inside, different departments cater to various needs. You can find the ancient book collection, a music center, and dissertation services on the first floor. Literature, social sciences, and a digital experience area reside on the second floor. The third floor holds special collections and Chinese Periodicals. Hong Kong, Taiwan Periodicals, and reference books are on the fourth floor.
Peking University Library isn’t just one building. It includes smaller libraries across departments. These branches collect books most needed by their students.
Many influential figures have shaped the Peking University Library. Chairman Mao worked here as a librarian in 1918. His daily tasks included cleaning and sorting books. In return, he could attend lectures by prominent professors. The library became his place for studying domestic issues. A statue of young Chairman Mao stands in the middle of the Peking University Library today.
Cai Yuanpei advocated for academic freedom. He created a welcoming environment for diverse voices. Cai Yuanpei supported the library’s construction. He transformed it into a modern library for teachers and students. Li Dazhao, China’s first Marxist communicator, also influenced the Peking University Library. As director, he implemented reforms that made the library a base for spreading Marxism. Scholars like Zhang Shizhao and Hu Shih contributed to the library. Portraits at the entrance commemorate these figures.
Today, the Peking University Library embraces modern technology. The Inter-Library Loan Service provides access to books worldwide. In 2014, the library introduced 3D printers for students. There is also a digital application experience area. Students can practice oral presentations in soundproof booths.
The Peking University Library houses cultural treasures. Its collection includes 1.5 million volumes of Chinese ancient books. 200,000 of these are rare. The Peking University Library is a hub for knowledge and communication. It holds lectures and exhibitions. The library equips students with research skills. It organizes reading marathons. The Peking University Library’s resources have important value for studying Chinese society and history. It is one of the best-managed and largest libraries in Asia. The Peking University Library, in essence, is more than just a building. It is a vibrant center of learning.