Wang Yuanyuan

    WITH the fast development of digital publication and electronic reading, Book City stores in Shenzhen are also seeking transformation.

    “For long-term prospects, it will be transformed into a public service venue to promote reading culture and leisure activities, not just a book store,” said Li Fulin, manager of the digital publication center of Shenzhen Publication & Distribution Group and general manager of the Book City Digital Publication House.

    As the city’s largest book-selling venues under the administration of Shenzhen Publication & Distribution Group, the three local Book City branches sold 4.8 million books last year — similar to the amount of books sold in 2010 — with sales revenue of 131.3 million yuan (US$20.8 million), while hosting about 10 million visitors.

    Book City Central City in Futian District has already become an important place for the city’s residents to spend their spare time.

    A total of 702 reading and cultural activities were held last year, 65 more than in 2010. Popular activities included “Shenzhen 8 p.m.,” a cultural lecture to the public; community book exchanges; story-telling competitions; voluntary cultural services; and poetry reading competitions. Special reading activities are also held during the Spring Festival every year, said Wang Wentao, director of Book City’s administration office.