Hohhot develops citywide reading network

Hohhot, capital of Inner Mongolia autonomous region, has developed a citywide reading network. A key initiative is the "red pomegranate reading corner", which brings reading services to grassroots communities.

Citizens enjoy reading time. [Photo/Hohhot Convergence Media]

The city has established 210 libraries, reading rooms, and 91 township (sub-district) cultural stations. Based on these, 459 reading corners have been set up. These spaces operate within a "15-minute reading circle" and connect with campus reading programs, reaching over 300,000 students.

The reading corners focus on books that reinforce ethnic unity, including theoretical works, bilingual picture books, and folk tales. Each year, 12,000 themed books are added, and 288,000 books are rotated.

To keep the spaces active, the city integrates reading with intangible cultural heritage activities such as paper-cutting and embroidery. It also provides accessible books, home delivery, and senior-friendly services. Over 1,560 events are held annually, serving more than 2 million people.

A digital reading system called Hongyan Reading enables cross-branch borrowing and returning across main district libraries, Hongyan rooms, grassland libraries, and reading corners. A book float mechanism allows exchanges. The digital library features smart kiosks, e-reading screens, and AI-powered recommendations, offering 24-hour smart reading access.

Hohhot will continue to improve book supplies, diversify activities, and enhance services, promoting reading as a bridge for interaction and integration among all ethnic groups.

A citizen read a book beside a "book wall". [Photo/Hohhot Convergence Media]