Beijing’s Tongzhou District now boasts a new cultural landmark that is redefining the concept of a modern library. The Beijing Library (BL), situated alongside the historic Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, officially opened its doors to the public, presenting a captivating blend of culture, architecture, and technology.
As part of a trio of cultural structures including the Beijing Performing Arts Centre and the Grand Canal Museum of Beijing, the library plays a key role in enriching the cultural and spiritual landscape of the city. These establishments collectively aim to propel the advancement of Beijing as a national cultural center.
Spanning a vast area of 75,000 square meters, the Beijing Library stands as the world’s largest and most intelligent library. A notable feature is its 21,809-square-meter open reading space, which has earned a Guinness World Record for being the largest library hall. The library also boasts the largest outdoor reading area for children and the most professional art documents hall in China. Its striking self-supporting glass façade sets it apart as a pioneering architectural feat in China’s library sector. As an extension of the Capital Library of China (CLCN), this facility forms part of a comprehensive literacy complex spread across three sites in Beijing.
Architecturally, the library is a marvel, nicknamed the “forest of knowledge” for its 144 ginkgo tree-like canopies that support the roof. This innovative design houses China’s first intangible cultural heritage exhibition hall within a library, offering a virtual exploration of Beijing’s traditional hutongs and folk customs.
With a capacity to house eight million books, the library not only serves as a repository of knowledge but also a vibrant hub for cultural exchange, academic discussions, and a celebration of Beijing’s rich cultural heritage.
A unique feature of the library is its automated storage and retrieval system, which is the largest in China. According to Zhang Fa, a publicity officer with CLCN, over seven million books are stored in the underground intelligent stacks, with a robot capable of delivering a requested book to the reading area in just 15 minutes.
Local resident Cheng Dan expressed excitement about visiting the new library, especially for its appealing design and dedicated children’s outdoor reading space.
To mark its opening, the library hosted a variety of immersive activities, including concerts and traditional workshops, signaling its commitment to nurturing a lifelong learning environment. With plans to host over 1,000 events annually, including seminars and exhibitions, the library is set to become a dynamic cultural hub.
BL is also pioneering in its approach to book lending, being the first library in Beijing to offer deposit-free borrowing. Newborns are welcomed into the world of reading with a special gift package from the library, including a customized reader’s card, a book, and a reading list.
The architectural design of the library is a fusion of form and function. The central reading space is amphitheater-like, encouraging interaction and intellectual exchange. Ginkgo tree-like columns, integral to the building’s climate control, lighting, and acoustics, add to the ambiance. This blend of technology and natural aesthetics, along with transparent façades and open spaces, makes the Beijing Library a haven for book lovers and a testament to the city’s commitment to cultural and architectural innovation.
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