Nestled in Chongqing, the Beicang Library (北仓图书馆) is a unique and cherished institution, spanning approximately 1,000 square meters. It is a place where history, art, and community converge, offering a haven for the city’s residents to explore, learn, and immerse themselves in a world of culture and creativity. With its distinct blend of modernity and tradition, the library stands as a symbol of resilience and preservation in the face of the ever-changing tides of time.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Design of Beicang Library
- History of Beicang Library
- Vlog about Beicang Library
- Attractions near Beicang Library
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 10.00 – 22.00 |
Location and Transportation
The Beicang Library is situated at 55 Tapin Road, Jiangbei District, Chongqing, near the bustling vicinity of Guanyinqiao. To get there, you can take bus 461, 471, or 638 and get off at Yanghe Road Stop (洋河路站).
Design of Beicang Library
The Beicang Library is divided into two main sections, each offering its own distinct charm and purpose. To the left, you’ll find a cozy exhibition hall, while the right side houses the main library. The library is not only a repository of knowledge but also a sanctuary for Chongqing’s local artists and their original creations. It boasts a dedicated exhibition area, which hosts an array of dynamic art exhibitions, including painting, photography, architecture, and creative exhibits, along with various cultural events. It is a place where creative expressions of the local talent find a platform to shine.
One of the library’s distinctive features is its design, which beautifully blends the essence of the past with contemporary aesthetics. The architects have thoughtfully preserved the original appearance of a warehouse, incorporating various nostalgic items that evoke memories of a bygone era. The library’s interior is predominantly adorned in white, creating an aura of simplicity and serenity. The arched wooden roof, complemented by expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, bathes the space in warm, natural light, further enhancing the tranquil ambiance of the library.
The exterior of the Beicang Library is a visual delight, constructed with a combination of red bricks and adorned with fresh, vibrant greenery including bamboo, ivy, and pothos. This architectural juxtaposition of strength and hope resonates with the library’s unique character, creating an atmosphere that is both imposing and inviting. Upon entering the Beicang Library, you will find more than just a collection of over 6,000 bestsellers and books spanning various genres. It is an immersion into a world of artistic wonder.
History of Beicang Library
The Beicang Library is far from being a conventional library; it holds a special place in the hearts of Chongqing’s residents. Its history is a testament to the city’s enduring spirit. It emerged from the challenging years of the last century, during the resistance against Japanese occupation. At that time, 13 major cotton mills, such as “Yufeng” from Henan and “Yuhua” from Hubei, relocated to Chongqing, transforming the city into a major textile hub during wartime. With the passage of time, most of these cotton mills closed down, but one of them was transformed into the Beicang Library. Thus, the library is not only a repository of books but also a repository of history, a living relic of a bygone era.
In an age when physical bookstores are struggling to survive, and the internet is becoming increasingly commercialized, the Beicang Library remains steadfast in its commitment to being a free and welcoming space for all. It features an array of comfortable seating arrangements, a readily available menu of beverages, and no pressure to order something to occupy a seat. Here, you can sit under the shade of your favorite bamboo grove or the soft glow of a popular, Instagram-worthy lamp, immersing yourself in the pages of your favorite books. It’s a place where you can simply spend an afternoon, accompanied by the timeless charm of books and the friendly presence of approachable masters within the pages, all while discovering the best version of yourself.
