As the largest national library in Asia, the China National Library (CNL) plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Chinese culture and knowledge. Founded in 1909, the CNL has grown to become one of the most important cultural institutions in the country. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history, collections, and services of the CNL.
History of the China National Library
The China National Library has a rich history that spans over a century. It was founded in 1909 as the Imperial Library of Peking, during the Qing dynasty. In 1912, after the fall of the Qing dynasty, the library was renamed the National Library of China. During the Second World War, the library suffered significant damage and many of its collections were lost. However, it was rebuilt in the post-war period and has since undergone numerous renovations and expansions.
Collections at the China National Library
The collections at the CNL are vast and diverse. The library holds over 40 million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, and audiovisual materials. Some of the most notable collections at the CNL include:
Rare Books and Manuscripts
The CNL has a large collection of rare books and manuscripts, many of which date back to ancient China. These include important works of Chinese literature, history, and philosophy, as well as rare editions of foreign books.
Chinese and Foreign Publications
The CNL is the largest repository of Chinese publications in the world. Its collection includes books, journals, newspapers, and other materials in Chinese and other languages. The library also holds a significant collection of foreign publications related to China.
Special Collections
The CNL has several special collections, including the Dunhuang Manuscripts, which are a set of ancient Chinese documents discovered in the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, Gansu province. The library also has a collection of old maps and atlases, as well as a collection of rare photographs.
Services and Facilities
The CNL offers a range of services and facilities to its users. These include:
Reading Rooms
The library has several reading rooms that are open to the public. These rooms are equipped with computers, printers, and other tools to assist users with their research.
Digital Resources
The CNL has a large collection of digital resources, including e-books, e-journals, and databases. These resources are accessible to users both on and off-site.
Exhibition Halls
The library has several exhibition halls that showcase items from its collections. These exhibitions are open to the public and are a great way to learn more about Chinese culture and history.
Accessing the China National Library
Access to the CNL is available to both Chinese and foreign users. To access the library, users must register for a library card. This can be done in person at the library or online. Users are also required to present valid identification and proof of address.
Location and Hours
The CNL is located in Beijing and is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The library is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Membership and Registration
Membership at the CNL is open to anyone who has a valid library card. There are different types of memberships available, including regular, student, and corporate memberships. Users can register for a library card in person at the library or online.
Conclusion
The China National Library is a vital institution in China’s cultural landscape. Its vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials has made it an important destination for scholars and researchers from all over the world. With its modern facilities and commitment to preserving and promoting Chinese culture and knowledge, the CNL is sure to remain a beacon of learning and enlightenment for generations to come.
FAQs
- Is the China National Library open to the public?
Yes, the CNL is open to the public. However, users are required to register for a library card to access its collections and services.
- How do I register for a library card at the China National Library?
Users can register for a library card in person at the library or online. They are required to present valid identification and proof of address.
- What types of materials are included in the collections at the China National Library?
The collections at the CNL include books, manuscripts, maps, audiovisual materials, and more. Some of the most notable collections are rare books and manuscripts, Chinese and foreign publications, and special collections such as the Dunhuang Manuscripts.
- What services and facilities does the China National Library offer?
The CNL offers a range of services and facilities to its users, including reading rooms, digital resources, and exhibition halls.
- Can foreign users access the collections at the China National Library?
Yes, access to the CNL is available to both Chinese and foreign users. However, users must register for a library card and present valid identification and proof of address.
References:
- “Introduction to China National Library.” China National Library. Accessed April 6, 2023. https://www.nlc.cn/newen/portal/aboutnl.htm.
- “China National Library.” Library Technology Guides. Accessed April 6, 2023. https://librarytechnology.org/library/20372.
- “About Us.” China National Library Development Foundation. Accessed April 6, 2023. http://www.cnldf.org.cn/html/en/aboutus/aboutus.html.
