On October 18, the Hainan Dongpo Theme Library officially opened its doors at the Hainan Provincial Party School. As the first library in China dedicated entirely to the theme of Su Dongpo, this establishment aims to fill a significant gap in specialized libraries and promote the rich culture surrounding this historic figure.
The Hainan Dongpo Theme Library features five core functional areas: an interactive reading space, a collection area, an electronic reading room, an academic discussion zone, and a cultural exchange reception area. This design is intended to offer readers a comprehensive and multi-dimensional cultural experience and learning environment. Currently, the library’s collection boasts a total of 9,036 volumes.
Fu Xuanguo, the Party Secretary of Hainan University, shared insight into the library’s origins. It was collaboratively established by the Hainan Provincial Party School and Hainan University. The library’s collection includes ancient texts, classic works, research findings, journals, and newspapers related to Su Dongpo, as well as documents containing paintings and calligraphy associated with him from countries like Japan, North Korea, Vietnam, and the United States. This resource aims to provide a comprehensive platform for scholars specializing in Dongpo culture.
Li Gongyu, Vice President of the Hainan Su Study Research Society, expressed the significance of the library’s vast collection of ancient texts. He stated, “Everyone has a respectful, credible, and lovable image of Su Dongpo in their hearts,” and believes the library will help scholars uncover the most authentic, original, and complete portrayal of Su Dongpo.
The establishment of the library has been supported by various social organizations and prominent collectors, which has greatly enriched the diversity and rarity of its collections. Among the noteworthy items is the “Overseas Collection of Su Wenzhong,” which encompasses all of Su Dongpo’s works created during his time in Danzhou, Hainan. This collection, passed down since the Song Dynasty, culminated in its final version during the Republic of China, making it a crucial resource for understanding Dongpo’s life in Hainan and the region’s ancient culture. Wang Rui, an associate researcher at Hainan University’s Dongpo Culture Research and Dissemination Center, emphasized the collection’s significant documentary value.
Looking ahead, Wang Shaowen, Deputy Party Secretary of the Hainan Provincial Party School, outlined plans for the library: “We will leverage the Hainan Dongpo Theme Library to deeply explore the essence of Dongpo culture and conduct extensive promotion and educational activities, helping more people understand, appreciate, and inherit Dongpo’s legacy.” He also noted that the library will continuously work to enhance its cultural offerings and service quality while strengthening collaborations with domestic and international institutions focused on Su studies.
