Success story

Foshan Library's book-sharing platform aims to encourage residents of the industrial city to read more, Wang Kaihao reports.

For Lu Weiqiang, a freelancer based in Foshan, Guangdong province, reading is an inseparable part of his everyday life. He visits Foshan Library regularly and buying books has become a fixed expense. He also has a concern. "My bookshelves can't hold anymore, but I still want to buy books."

As someone active in voluntary public service, Lu says he also thinks of other people who may face a similar confusion:"How can I have more space for books and share my collection at the same time?"

On World Book and Copyright Day in April last year, Lu logged on Ex-Book, an online program launched by Foshan Library, and found a good solution. Since then, he has uploaded 260 books, about half of his collection, to the platform for strangers to borrow. From illustration books for children to guides on financial management, his books have been borrowed for over 500 times.

"You feel happier when more people can enjoy your beloved books," Lu says. "You find many people sharing what you like on the platform and that leaves more space at home to bring new books."