Songshan Lake Library: Transforming Community Spaces through Ecological Art and Immersive Reading

Abstract

Songshan Lake Library transcends traditional library boundaries by integrating nature, reading, art, and community life under the principles of ecological civilization and sustainable development, creating an open green cultural ecosystem where people, knowledge, and communities grow together.

Green Space: Transforming urban landscapes into spaces where reading, art, and nature coexist.Through the ecological art project“Biome Verse,”the library transforms urban landscapes into cultural spaces, using 100% natural light and existing lighting systems, with 98% of exhibition materials reused or recycled. The project attracted 80,000+ participants and presented 230+ community artworks.

Green Knowledge: Connecting ecological awareness with Chinese cultural heritage.The library combines digital reading, environmental education, and cultural preservation. Digital books account for approximately 40% of borrowing, with annual environmental benefits equivalent to protecting about 200 trees. Programs featuring Chinese character culture and ancient texts integrate ecological knowledge into public education.

Green Community: Enabling every resident to become part of a cultural ecosystem.Through a Library-School-Enterprise-Community partnership, the library collaborates with 10+ organizations and supports reading stations, community services, and micro-libraries, embedding reading into everyday community life.