The cultural seed bank of a civilization

The happiness of people's life after 1949 is also represented in the 47 New Year pictures on show, including Xindede Huangniu (The Newly-Gained Cattle) created by Li Keran for the first Chinese Spring Festival after the founding of the People's Republic of China.

At the showcase of books for international markets, a bulky version of the picture book of Dream of the Red Chamber is spread out on the table. As one of the most popular Chinese books overseas, the picture book versions, translated into multiple languages, sold more than 20,000 copies.

As the first modern Chinese dictionary published after 1949, Xinhua Dictionary, in its 13 editions since it was first launched in 1953, is on display.

"In a comparatively concise manner, Xinhua Dictionary provides most user-friendly meanings, pronunciation, phrases and idioms of Chinese characters, which can meet the needs of people of all education levels," Wang says.