Shanghai's new public library celebrates creativity and public art

Inspired by Taihu stones, or ancient Chinese scholars’ rocks, Shanghai Library East emphasises creativity, collaboration, and public art. More than 80% of the building’s space is dedicated to community activity. Photo: Handout

For book lovers and art enthusiasts, the newly-opened Shanghai Library East in Pudong, Shanghai is bound to be a place of interest when China loosens its zero-Covid policy.

Opened late last month, Shanghai Library East is one of the largest new libraries in the world, and it has integrated public art into its building design and curation.