Documentary explores legacy of China's greatest library

A new 10-episode historical documentary about Siku Quanshu (Complete Library of the Four Treasuries), the largest collection of books in ancient China, premiered on June 8.

Titled Kuayue Shikong De Siku Quanshu (Across Time and Space: Complete Library of the Four Treasuries), the series traces the 250-year journey of this monumental encyclopedia. It follows the compilation of the collection under Emperor Qianlong, explores the devastating losses it suffered during conflicts such as the First Opium War (1840-42) and the Taiping Rebellion (1851-64), and highlights the efforts made to protect and preserve surviving copies under challenging circumstances.

Containing more than 3,400 works in nearly 80,000 volumes, the Siku Quanshu took over a decade to complete. The project involved more than 360 senior officials and scholars, along with over 3,800 copyists. Upon completion, the collection was housed in seven specially constructed pavilions across northern and southern China.

To bring this history to life, the documentary's production team traveled to 16 cities, tracing the fate of the four northern and three southern pavilions. The documentary also explores later initiatives to recopy and reprint the collection, helping ensure its survival for future generations.

Combining historical storytelling with reflective narration, the series highlights the contributions of key figures involved in compiling and preserving the Siku Quanshu. Among them is scholar Ji Xiaolan, the chief compiler, whose dedication is prominently featured. The documentary also honors brothers Ding Bing and Ding Shen, who rescued more than 8,600 surviving volumes from a heavily damaged pavilion in Hangzhou, one of the three southern repositories.

Xu Lingguang, the documentary's chief director, explained his inspiration: "The Siku Quanshu contains more than words — it embodies the national spirit and the cultural lineage of Chinese civilization."

Through the series, Xu hopes viewers will connect with history, gain a deeper understanding of the past, and develop a greater appreciation for China's cultural heritage.