A library in Quzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

In Quzhou, Zhejiang province, libraries across the city have flourished and are putting idea within reach for all readers.

Since the successful pilot of the first Southern Confucianism Book House in 2017, Quzhou has established 99 libraries within 1,115 "15-minute quality cultural life circles" to achieve high-quality public cultural services, according to Hu Jianfeng, director of the Quzhou Library. These libraries have become popular spots for reading and relaxation.

In recent years, Quzhou has continued to expand public cultural facilities to meet diverse needs for readers. In January 2023, the new Quzhou Library opened its doors, followed by the new Qujiang District Library in August this year.

The city also has focused on making libraries more visually appealing by incorporating creative elements like murals, starry ceilings, and cultural display areas. These enhancements made libraries more attractive and inviting spaces for readers of all ages.

This year, the number of books borrowed from public libraries in Quzhou reached 4.14 million, a 10.02 percent increase from last year, while visitor numbers soared to 7.15 million, marking a 48.70 percent year-on-year growth.