China's Guangdong Province launched its 2026 Reading Week on Wednesday, with the opening ceremony held ahead of World Book Day (April 23).
The event took place at the Bai'etan Greater Bay Area Art Center in Guangzhou, aiming to foster reading habits and promote the development of a learning-oriented society.
According to the officials, Guangdong plans to further integrate reading into its long-term education framework. The initiative emphasizes accessible learning platforms, broader public participation through diverse events, and the greater role of reading as a cornerstone for continuous education.
Several major cultural and publishing projects were unveiled at the launch. These include a series of large-scale publication programs compiling historical materials related to Guangdong's trade, overseas Chinese communities, revolutionary history, and arts. These projects are designed to organize and interpret historical records while making them more accessible to the public and researchers.
Another initiative announced at the event focuses on documenting local village histories through a series of community-narrative-based publications, aiming to preserve rural heritage and provide educational resources that reflect local identities.
Organizers also highlighted the broader cultural context behind these efforts, noting that Guangdong's development has been shaped by its geographic position as a coastal hub for trade and exchange, its historical role in modern China's transformation, and its long-standing connections with overseas Chinese communities. Together, these factors have contributed to a regional culture characterized by openness, adaptability, and pragmatism.
In addition to publishing initiatives, a province-wide reading competition was introduced to encourage public engagement. The program integrates reading activities with digital learning platforms, enabling participants to track their progress and receive recognition for their achievements. A recommended reading list focused on Lingnan culture was also released, with selected titles distributed to libraries, schools, and organizations.
According to the organizers, nearly 50 reading-related events will be held across Guangdong throughout 2026 as part of broader efforts to promote reading and support lifelong learning.
Reporter: Li Fangwang
Photo: Li Fangwang
