A READING program has been launched in Xinqiao Subdistrict, which encourages families to set up a small reading corner covering an area of only 1 square meter.

According to a report in the Bao’an Daily, the idea of the reading corner was born when district leaders visited the subdistrict and suggested that they use Shenzhen Book City as a platform to organize reading activities. Since then, the program has devoted itself to building a community in which everyone enjoys reading.

In 2016, the program selected a total of 20 families in 29 communities for trial projects. These families included model reading families, model loving families, families receiving the basic living allowance and three-generation families. The program helped them build a reading corner at home and selected over 800 books.

Many families said that the reading corner even made parents put down their phones and start reading with their children. Children who used to be addicted to online games are now willing to spare some time for reading. The small corners not only changed families’ habits but also improved their relationships.

With the success among families, the program turned its attention in 2017 to helping companies and public service halls in the district customize reading corners and purchased over 4,000 books.

At present, the program has set foot in 100 public spaces. Over three years, it has provided services for over 100,000 people. The program plans to continue in its role as a driving force in getting more citizens interested in reading, letting the smell of books waft across the community. (Wang Jingli)