Bookworms in Hangzhou, rejoice! A new West Lake Study, located in Huaxing Residential Complex, Gudang of Xihu District, recently opens its door to the public.

Covering approximately 600 square meters, the West Lake Study boasts a modern design inspired by the unique character of Gudang. The space is divided into several functional areas, including a reading area, a cultural product exhibition area, a coffee station, and an audiobook corner. This thoughtful design seamlessly integrates the study room into the daily lives of local residents, creating a unique cultural atmosphere that encourages community engagement.

The reading area boasts a collection of over 10,000 books spanning a wide range of genres, from classic literature to young adult fiction, suspense, and science fiction. It can comfortably accommodate over 120 readers at a time. Fitted with handy amenities like power outlets and cup holders, the space is designed to provide a comfortable reading environment.

“A highlight of the study is its cultural product exhibition area, where visitors can purchase a wide variety of items inspired by Gudang's local landmarks,” enthused Lao Chen, a local resident. “There are refrigerator magnets featuring Lotus Square, bookmarks inspired by Yunzhou International, and coasters with illustrations of Ant Group’s Z Space headquarters. It’s incredible to be able to read a book and sip coffee from cups adorned with illustrations of landmarks from my neighborhood.”

According to the person in charge of cultural affairs in Gudang, the West Lake Study is more than just a place to read; it’s a vibrant cultural hub that shares knowledge and promotes community interaction. It plans to host a variety of cultural events, including photography and illustration exhibitions and Huaxing Forum, to enrich the cultural life of local residents.

Gudang has made significant strides in fostering a reading culture. One of its key cultural initiatives is the creation of public reading spaces. In addition to the existing facilities in Jiahe and Huaxing, new studies in Yile and Gudun are currently being renovated and will soon open to the public.