Library is booking stories of success

The facility is so convenient that primary school students can use the machines to borrow books, which attracts young readers, Wang says.

The library also houses a bookstore, where readers can order new books that are not available in the collection. The library covers the costs, allowing patrons to borrow the book immediately upon arrival. Additionally, a newly established dining area provides convenience for those who wish to spend extended periods in the library.

"We strive to offer a wide range of services to attract new users and retain existing ones," Wang adds.

Each year, the library hosts approximately 200 events, including book discussions and book debuts. It also regularly visits schools to conduct book-sharing lectures. Recently, the library held a lecture at a senior middle school on the art of costumes in the classic Chinese novel, Dream of the Red Chamber.

Apart from children and teenagers, the library also draws tourists and members of the Mongolian ethnic group.

Situated in the vast southwestern region of Inner Mongolia, Ordos is home to the Mongolian and other ethnic groups. Both Mongolian and Chinese languages are prominently visible throughout the city. The Ordos Library's exterior resembles three standing books. This iconic design has made it a popular spot for tourists to take photos.

Inside the library, there is a dedicated Mongolian-language reading room, offering a range of periodicals, magazines and books in the native language covering subjects such as literature, history and science. "The Mongolian reading room does not get many visitors," says Tana, a Mongolian librarian. "However, the most popular book in the room is a Mongolian novel about rivers.

"This reading room is also used for the collection and preservation of Mongolian literature and academic research," Tana says.