The “Jinji Lake Shared Books” fair demonstrates the innovative and inclusive facets of the 15th SIP Reading Season that opened in SIP on Apr 18 and will last throughout the year.

The participants had the chance to watch how a damaged ancient book is repaired and even try it in person following the instructions from the inheritor of traditional skills of restoring and preserving ancient calligraphy and painting works.

There was a booth with ornaments inspired by literature, and one where visitors could get a piece of baked food after writing down their ideas about reading and food.

At the booth of Suzhou Eslite Bookstore, visitors could exchange their copyrighted books for original foreign-language books.

The “Surprising Culture Box” program was launched concurrently to bring music, art, creative products, performances and cultural experiences to business districts, scenic areas, neighborhoods and schools.

The fair also offered kids the opportunity to make creative books by themselves.

It is learned that fairs of the kind will be held at the “Right Bank Parlor” (a huge open square by Jinji Lake), Suzhou Center and other local landmark destinations later.

April 19, 2025