New children's library in Shanghai opens its doors

The Shanghai Children's Library opened a new branch in the city's Changning district on July 19.

Located in Changning district and near Changfeng Park and the Suzhou Creek, the new library is the largest provincial children's library in China and has a collection of more than 500,000 books. One of its notable features is the glass curtain wall that allows people to admire the scenes of nature surrounding the venue.

Among the first visitors of the new library was a woman surnamed Wu, who brought along her 4-year-old son.

"We regularly go to the old library on West Nanjing Road and have been looking forward to the opening of this new one. I made a reservation immediately when I found out this library would be opening," said Wu.

Founded in 1941, the Shanghai Children's Library was relocated to 962 West Nanjing Road in 1958 and has been serving generations of readers over the past decades. The branch on West Nanjing Road will remain open along with the new one.

Due to the current COVID-19 situation, visitor numbers to both venues will be capped at half of maximum capacity. Those entering the premises must make reservations before their visit and show a valid health QR code, according to the library's administration.

Jin Mengyuan contributed to this story.