Millions of books. That’s what the Shenzhen Library holds. Can you imagine?
Welcome to the Shenzhen Library a true marvel of modern China. This isn’t just any library. It’s a cornerstone of Shenzhen’s celebrated “City of Libraries” initiative. A city where residents read an average of 8.86 printed books and 12.13 e-books annually. A UNESCO-recognized global model for promoting reading.
The main library built in 2006 sits proudly on the city’s central axis. It’s a stunning six-story building covering 50,000 square meters. Every year nearly five million people visit. They borrow around five million books. Impressive right?
But there’s more. The library isn’t confined to this central location. Shenzhen boasts a network of sub-libraries. There are also over 200 24-hour self-service libraries. This means that borrowing and returning books is a breeze. You can do it at any location across the city. This is due to a centralized e-resources management system. This single database helps manage everything. It handles purchases cataloging and customer management. It really is a seamless experience.
And the 24-hour book bar at the Shenzhen Book City CBD Store. It’s been open for sixteen years straight. That’s 140,000 hours of continuous service. Free study rooms and WiFi are available. Cafes and eateries offer sustenance for mind and body.
Shenzhen is home to an astonishing 744 public libraries. This includes nine national first-class libraries. Add in 306 self-service libraries. You get the picture a true city of books. These libraries collectively house an astounding 57.45 million books.
Think about the Island Library on Hexian Island. It sits within a magnificent lotus pond spanning over 20,000 square meters. Its collection is also impressive boasting over 20,000 books.
Then there’s the Zhongying Street Library. This castle-like structure stands on a site of historical significance. It beautifully reflects the street’s evolution over the past century.
And the Lighthouse Library perched on a coastal boardwalk in Yantian District. This three-story library is closer to the sea than any other library in Shenzhen. It’s become a beloved cultural landmark.
Don’t forget the Zhongshuge Bookstore in OCT OH Bay. It’s known as Shenzhen’s most beautiful library. Its breathtaking spiral red bookshelf winds through various reading areas. There are activity spaces and a colorful children’s area. The children’s reading desk even resembles a train.
This isn’t just a library system. It’s a testament to Shenzhen’s commitment to literacy and culture. It’s a place of learning discovery and community. A city that truly breathes books. So let’s explore further.