Three public libraries from South China's Guangdong Province have gained international recognition in the IFLA PressReader International Marketing Award Winners 2026, highlighting the province's efforts to make library services more innovative, inclusive and technology-driven.
The results were announced on May 13 by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and PressReader. This year's award received more than 120 submissions from around the world, with entries evaluated for creativity, public engagement and social impact.
Among libraries and partner institutions in the Chinese mainland, nine projects either reached the global top 10 or received special mentions. Guangdong accounted for three of these recognitions.
Shenzhen Library wins second place with immersive smart library experience
Shenzhen Library won second place for its "Under Library" campaign, an immersive program that takes readers inside the library's underground automated storage system.
The campaign opens up a rarely seen part of the library to the public, allowing visitors to explore how smart library technologies support book storage, retrieval and circulation behind the scenes. By combining technology displays, guided experiences and reading promotion, the program offers the public a fresh way to understand modern library services.
Dongguan Library expands picture-book reading to older adults
Dongguan Library entered the global top 10 with its "Ageless Picture Books, Boundless Reading Encounters" project.
Built on Dongguan's citywide picture-book library network, the initiative extends picture-book reading services beyond children to older readers, encouraging intergenerational participation and lifelong reading. It repositions picture books as a shared cultural resource for families and communities, rather than a service limited to young children.
Organizers said the project reflects a broader shift from child-centered picture-book services toward inclusive reading experiences for people of all ages.
Guangzhou Library recognized for accessible reading services
Guangzhou Library received a jury special mention for its "Visual Empowerment" project, which focuses on accessible cultural services for visually impaired readers and other groups with special needs. The initiative includes reading assistance, audio description programs, accessible cultural events and volunteer support, aiming to promote equal access to reading and cultural participation.
The project earned praise for advancing inclusive public library services and encouraging greater social integration through cultural accessibility.
The recognition of libraries from Shenzhen, Dongguan and Guangzhou in the same international competition reflects broader efforts across Guangdong to modernize public library services, expand access to reading, and strengthen connections with local communities.
The recognized projects span smart library technology, all-age reading initiatives and accessible cultural services, showing how public libraries in Guangdong are adapting to the diverse needs of contemporary readers while expanding their international visibility.
Reporter: Li Fangwang
Photo: Library Society of Guangdong, IFLA official website
