Libraries now offer students far more than books

The main reason people visit libraries is changing with the times.

Shi, the library worker in Shenzhen, said: "In the past, people went to a library primarily to borrow books and access information. Now, libraries have gained popularity among a growing number of young people who want to improve themselves. The peaceful environment allows them to concentrate on their studies, and those studying alongside them provide a sense of companionship and motivation."

By the end of 2021, China had 3,215 public libraries, which recorded 103 million readers.

Tang Zixuan, 20, a sophomore student at a Beijing university, said the library is the only place where she can immerse herself fully in her studies.

"At home, I feel relaxed, but only in the library can I find the perfect environment for work and study, which helps me maintain self-discipline. Being in such a setting motivates me," said Tang, who has been a regular library visitor for the past two to three years.

Since high school, she has visited a library during the winter and summer vacations for homework and studying. In her first year at university, she even stayed in the library for an entire day reading books, taking a nap at noon, and studying for a time in the afternoon.

Tang recently started to prepare for job applications after she graduates, and has taken part in various competitions to gain experience of domestic and international graduate programs. As a result, she devotes most of her time in the library to studying.

"People who go to the library, specifically to the study rooms, have a strong sense of purpose. They are preparing for exams, postgraduate entrance tests, or completing assignments," Tang said.

"I feel a little guilty if I slack off in the library. If I have an extended period of free time, I might do nothing for an entire afternoon, which only increases my anxiety. I rely on external pressure for self-discipline."

Last year, the China Youth Internet Users' Social Mentality Survey Report showed that 77 percent of a sample group reported experiencing study or work-related anxiety.

It also found that among a sample group on Sina Weibo, over 56 percent of young internet users strongly opposed the concept of "lying flat", a metaphor for disengaging from work and ambition.

The report was jointly released by Fudan University's Development Research Institute, the Center for Communication and State Governance Research, Fudan University's Global Media and Communication Studies Institute, the Bilibili Public Policy Research Institute, and Shanghai Information Security and Social Management Innovation Laboratory.

Tang said: "I feel as though I am facing overwhelming pressure, which is too demanding. I cannot truly enjoy my leisure time because I constantly feel the need to be doing things. I'm afraid of falling behind due to the increased external competition, peer pressure and a fast-paced lifestyle. Everything is so intense, so how can I find time to relax?"

She believes that the library is the only place where she can find peace while advancing her studies.