Have you ever felt the weight of history in a single building? The Xie Xide Memorial Library stands before you. It is more than just a library. It’s a living monument to a man whose life intertwined with the very fabric of Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
This library. Its story begins not with bricks and mortar but with Xie Xide himself. Born in 1896 he was a man of immense passion and intellect. His early life was marked by hardship. His family’s wealth vanished when he was just six years old. He persevered. He excelled in his studies. He went on to study in the United States.
Xie Xide’s patriotism shone brightly. He challenged President Woodrow Wilson about the Qingdao issue. He participated in the May Fourth Movement. He was a staunch advocate for a modern and open China.
He became president of Jiaotong University in 1928. His tenure saw significant expansion. A new library was needed. Xie Xide’s vision was bold a modern structure reflecting both Eastern and Western influences. He spearheaded fundraising efforts. Students even formed fundraising teams.
The library’s construction began in 1928. The design was a perfect blend of styles. The building’s north side was two stories tall. It resembled European architecture. The south side added in 1949 echoed the style of the Ming Dynasty Tianyi Library. The number six played a crucial role in its design inspired by the I Ching to ensure its protection from fire. Even the electrical wiring was encased in lead.
The library opened in 1928. It housed a vast collection. Western books in multiple languages filled the upper floors. The lower floors displayed a collection of Chinese books and historical records. This impressive collection included over 120000 volumes and 2100 local records. The library also possessed other treasures such as ancient coins and vintage stamps.
The library was not just a repository of knowledge. It was a hub of activity. Students and scholars frequented its reading rooms. Its atmosphere was described as serene and beautiful a place of quiet contemplation and profound learning.
Tragically Xie Xide’s life was cut short in 1938. He was assassinated. His death sent shockwaves throughout China. He was remembered as a patriot a scholar and a dedicated educator.
The library continued to thrive. In 1956 it became part of the Shanghai Library. Even today it remains a place of learning. It continues to serve as a symbol of Sino-Western cultural exchange a testament to Xie Xide’s lasting legacy. This library. This building. It breathes history. It whispers stories. It stands as a proud symbol of Xie Xide’s unwavering devotion to education and nation.