In 2023, the number of public library users in Guangzhou exceeded 30 million for the first time, according to a report released at the "2024 Guangzhou Reading Month—Guangzhou Public Library Conference" on the afternoon of April 21. All 13 public libraries at the district level and above in Guangzhou have been awarded the national first-class library designation, and the number of document checks reached 36.1325 million, the highest on record.
People enjoy reading at the Guangzhou Library. (Photo: Wang Liangjue)
The per capita amount of reading of adult readers and juvenile readers in Guangzhou is more than twice that of the national population. Chen Jinyu, who is only 9 years old, has won the "Guangzhou Underage Reading Star" title for three consecutive years and borrowed 1,462 books in 2023.
According to two reports on reading and public library development in Guangdong, in 2023, the comprehensive reading rate of adult residents in Guangdong was 94.8%, and there are 150 public libraries at or above the county (district) level in the province. The area of public libraries per 10,000 people in Guangdong is about 275.39 square meters. More than 95,000 reader activities were held across the province last year.
The "2024 Guangzhou Reading Month—Guangzhou Public Library Conference" (Photos courtesy of Guangzhou Library)
It is worth noting that in order to meet the reading needs of the majority of readers, starting from May 1, all public libraries in Guangzhou will introduce the Points System, and the number of books that can be borrowed will be increased from the current 30 to 40. This will be the largest number of books that can be borrowed among city public libraries in China, second only to the Queens Public Library of New York, where people can borrow up to 50 books at a time.
In addition, the loan period will be adjusted from 31 days to 21 days, the number of renewal times will be increased from one to three, and the total loan period will be increased from 62 days to 84 days. The revised rules will be put on trial for two months.
Puppeteers present a puppet show at the conference. (Photo: Armand)
Elementary school students recite verses about the top eight scenic spots in Guangzhou at the conference. (Photo: Armand)
Reporter | Monica, Armand (intern)
Editor | Steven, James
