By Xinyi Li, EDITOR

On April 20, the 2019 National Reading Day and the 12th Chongqing Reading Month kicked off in Jiefangbei CBD. As 12 years passed, this series has become a mirror of the increasing passion of Chongqing’s citizens for reading. Since characteristic bookstores including Zhongshuge and Popular occupy the reading market in Chongqing, the number of city bookstores has reached third place in Asia.

On April 20, the 2019 National Reading Day and the 12th Chongqing Reading Month kicked off in Jiefangbei CBD

An unceasingly expanded reading space

According to the 16th National Reading Survey released by the Chinese Academy of Press and Publication on April 16, Chongqing ranked ninth in the list of city public reading service index. This, undoubtedly, is an affirmation of Chongqing to build public facilities for reading.

“We have attached great importance to the upgrading of reading space in Chongqing over these years.” The principal of the Publicity Department of the CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee introduces Chongqing has attracted a number of characteristic bookstores to settle down. Additionally, it also strives to expand the reading space by building public cultural centers and self-service libraries. The citywide coverage has maximized convenience for citizens to read.

Chongqing is striving to expand the reading space by building public cultural centers and self-service libraries

“The past years have witnessed the rise of emerging reading platforms in Chongqing, such as digital libraries, digital rural libraries, mobile App., public library’s convenience line, SXCQ’s WeChat official account, and Xinhua Yuetao. Meanwhile, with the completion of 43 digital libraries and 586 digital rural libraries, the digital reading network has thus taken shape.” said the principal.

An annual average of 8,000 reading activities

As the statistic data from the Chongqing Municipal Commission of Culture and Tourism Development indicates, through years of development, Chongqing holds 8,000 reading activities each year that cover 13 million citizens. With more than 1,500 major theme activities, each district in Chongqing has possessed one brand, and every county has its own feature.

Chongqing holds 8,000 reading activities each year that cover 13 million citizens

“The implementation of such reading brands as ‘Hongyan Youth’ and ‘Masters’ Visit to Schools’ showcases the nationwide promotion and guidance quality of Chongqing’s reading activities. It has also reflected how much attention Chongqing has paid to reading. Therefore, more citizens can enjoy reading.” said Ren Jing, Head of Chongqing Library.

Source: Chongqing Daily News