Beijing recently played host to a captivating book fair centered around its historic Central Axis. A hotspot for bibliophiles, the event presented tens of thousands of old books and an extensive variety of cultural items, attracting enthusiasts eager to discover and acquire unique treasures.
Ten prominent bookstores participated in this cultural extravaganza. Among them, the renowned Liulichang branch of the China Bookstore stood out, proudly displaying its eclectic collection. Attendees were treated to a variety of rare Beijing classics, esteemed foreign literature, cherished comic books, and ancient stone inscriptions.
Highlighting the value of old books, Zhang Dongxiao, the chairman of the China Bookstore, remarked on their significance. He emphasized that these literary gems are not just mere pages bound together. They are repositories of traditional culture and pivotal accounts of civilization’s magnificent journey over centuries.
In a bid to champion the preservation, promotion, and exchange of these vintage publications, the China Bookstore is actively involved in various literary endeavors. From organizing book expos, cultural salons, and community events to launching auctions, their commitment to the cause is evident. The bookstore’s proactive stance was demonstrated at the Ditan Book Fair earlier this year, where it successfully sold over 30,000 books, raking in almost 2 million yuan.
Yet, their contribution goes beyond mere sales and events. Recognizing the importance of preserving the integrity of old books, the China Bookstore has nurtured a team of experts specializing in book restoration. Their expertise not only benefits the store’s own collection but also extends to customers in need of book restoration services. In a touching gesture, for historically valuable books, the bookstore levies charges only for the material and labor, underscoring the invaluable cultural worth of these relics, as shared by Liu Yichen, manager of the Liulichang branch.
While bookstores play a central role, old book markets, such as the renowned Panjiayuan Antique Market, are equally pivotal. A mecca for old book aficionados, this market hosts about 350 merchants trading rare editions, vintage publications, and miniaturized books. An employee of the market, Zhang, noted that this flourishing trade can be traced back to 1992, when the antique market was inaugurated. On weekends, this venue transforms into a literary haven, with over 200 stalls dedicated to trading vintage books.
Interestingly, the demographic of patrons is diverse. Alongside seasoned collectors, young individuals in their 20s and 30s frequent these stalls. International clientele too showcases a keen interest, often purchasing literature in both Chinese and English.
The appeal of vintage books extends to the digital realm. Platforms like Kongfz.com, China’s premier online book trading site, bear testament to this. Boasting a network of over 400,000 bookstores and an impressive 19 million registered users, the platform’s annual revenues surpass 50 million yuan. Since its inception in 2002, Kongfz.com has been pivotal in rescuing countless books from potential oblivion. Demonstrating its dedication to literary preservation, the platform established a public welfare library, ensuring that ancient texts and literature continue to enlighten future generations.
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