Author: Xu Shaona, Xie Lin and Duxin 

Publisher: New Express

Date: April 28, 2024

The Jinan University Library Reading Report provides valuable insights into the reading habits and preferences of college students in Guangdong universities. It is evident that students majoring in humanities and social sciences exhibit a strong penchant for borrowing books, with works such as Selected Works of Mao Zedong, The Ordinary World, To Live, The Three-body Problem, The Story about Ming Dynasty and The Miracles of the Namiya General Store being particularly popular among them. Additionally, the detective novels by writer Keigo Higashino have garnered widespread appeal among both male and female students, reflecting a diverse range of literary interests within the student community.

(The Ordinary World)

(The Story about Ming Dynasty)

(To Live)

(The Three-body Problem)

(The Miracles of the Namiya General Store)

(From the Soil)

The report highlights the significant role that university libraries play in facilitating academic pursuits and intellectual enrichment. With millions of visitors recorded across various university libraries in Guangdong, it is clear that these institutions serve as vital hubs for learning, research, and personal growth. The high borrowing volumes and diverse reading preferences observed among students underscore the importance of promoting a culture of reading and intellectual exploration within academic settings.

Moreover, the report sheds light on the favorite authors and books among college students, with notable figures such as Yu Hua, Lu Xun, Mo Yan and Keigo Higashino featuring prominently in the reading preferences of students. The popularity of literary works and the engagement with diverse genres further emphasize the rich tapestry of literary interests among contemporary college students.

The dedication and commitment of library bookworms and avid readers, as highlighted in the report, underscore the profound impact that libraries have on individuals' academic pursuits and personal development. The library's role as a sanctuary for learning, research, and contemplation is evident in the accounts of students who frequent these spaces as a source of solace, inspiration, and intellectual stimulation.

Furthermore, the emphasis on enhancing library services, promoting reading activities, and embracing technological advancements underscores the commitment of university libraries to providing high-quality and personalized experiences for their patrons. The initiatives aimed at improving the reading environment, expanding access to resources, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning reflect a proactive approach towards enriching the academic experience of students and faculty members.

Overall, the Jinan University Library Reading Report offers a comprehensive overview of the reading landscape in Guangdong universities, highlighting the vibrant culture of intellectual curiosity, literary exploration, and academic engagement that thrives within these academic communities.

Reading Becomes Antidote for Anxiety: Personal Revelation Sparks a Habit

1) Yang Jianpeng, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University

(Yang Jianpeng)

Yang Jianpeng, a senior student majoring in Traditional Chinese Medicine at the School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, exemplifies a dedicated and passionate approach to his academic pursuits. His commitment to borrowing and reading 330 professional books annually showcases a deep-seated thirst for knowledge and a strong desire to excel in his field. Yang's focus on professional literature, particularly in the realm of traditional Chinese medicine, reflects his understanding of the importance of continuous learning and knowledge accumulation in honing his skills as a future practitioner.

Yang's enthusiasm for his chosen field is palpable, as he views reading as a means of not only expanding his academic horizons but also enhancing his practical abilities. His belief in the transformative power of reading, from quantitative accumulation to qualitative understanding, underscores his commitment to personal and professional growth. By immersing himself in a diverse range of professional texts, Yang not only reinforces his classroom learning but also cultivates a deeper appreciation for the nuances and complexities of traditional Chinese medicine.

Moreover, Yang's acknowledgment of reading as a form of spiritual nourishment and personal development speaks to the profound impact that literature can have on shaping one's worldview and aspirations. His journey from initial confusion to clarity and confidence, guided by the insights gleaned from his reading experiences, underscores the transformative potential of intellectual exploration and self-discovery.

Yang's admiration for the works of Mr. Hu Xishu and the influence they have had on his understanding of traditional Chinese medicine further highlights his receptiveness to new ideas and perspectives. His dedication to delving into the scientific underpinnings of his field demonstrates a nuanced approach to learning that is both rigorous and reflective.

In essence, Yang Jianpeng's story is a testament to the power of curiosity, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity in shaping one's educational journey and personal growth. His unwavering commitment to his field, coupled with a deep appreciation for the transformative impact of reading, serves as an inspiration to fellow students and aspiring professionals alike.

2) Tian Qi, School of Literature, Jinan University

(Tian Qi)

Tian Qi, a dedicated graduate student specializing in the history of Sino-foreign relations at Jinan University's School of Literature, exemplifies a steadfast commitment to intellectual growth and academic excellence. His impressive record of borrowing 313 books in a year, the highest among master's degree holders at the university, underscores his unwavering dedication to expanding his knowledge and deepening his understanding of his chosen field.

Tian Qi's approach to reading transcends mere academic requirements, as he views it as an integral part of his life and personal development. His conscientious efforts to immerse himself in a wide array of professional literature, coupled with inspirational and philosophical works, reflect a holistic approach to intellectual enrichment and emotional well-being. By utilizing the power of words to navigate through emotional challenges and seek solace in positive energy, Tian Qi demonstrates a keen awareness of the transformative potential of literature beyond its scholarly implications.

Furthermore, Tian Qi's affinity for the classic work Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio and its influence on his early understanding of Sino-foreign relations speaks to the profound impact that literature can have on shaping one's academic interests and career trajectory. His ability to draw connections between literary narratives and historical realities underscores a nuanced and interdisciplinary approach to scholarship that is both enlightening and enriching.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Tian Qi's exploration of texts such as Ying-yai Sheng-lan: The Overall Survey of the Ocean's Shores by Ma Huan in the Ming Dynasty highlights his commitment to broadening his horizons and gaining insights from diverse sources. By delving into overseas literature and historical accounts, Tian Qi not only enhances his academic research but also cultivates a global perspective that is essential for understanding the complexities of Sino-foreign relations.

Overall, Tian Qi's dedication to scholarly pursuits, coupled with his appreciation for the transformative power of reading, encapsulates a profound reverence for knowledge and a genuine thirst for intellectual exploration. His ability to find solace, inspiration, and enlightenment through the written word underscores the enduring significance of literature as a source of personal enrichment and intellectual growth.

3) Xia Qing, he College of Vocational and Technical Education at South China Normal University

(Xia Qing)

Xia Qing, a graduate student from the College of Vocational and Technical Education at South China Normal University Shanwei Campus, exemplifies a profound appreciation for the transformative power of reading in navigating life's challenges and nurturing emotional resilience. Her belief in books as a source of solace and wisdom underscores a deep-seated understanding of the therapeutic value of literature in providing clarity amidst the complexities of daily life.

In recognizing the restorative nature of reading, Xia Qing demonstrates a keen awareness of the emotional sanctuary that books can offer during times of stress and uncertainty. Her ability to find solace and tranquility in the pages of a book reflects a mindful approach to self-care and emotional well-being, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of literary immersion as a means of cultivating inner peace and resilience.

Moreover, Xia Qing's emphasis on the importance of patience and long-term commitment to reading underscores a thoughtful perspective on the enduring rewards of literary engagement. By advocating for a sustained dedication to the practice of reading and the application of acquired knowledge in real-life contexts, she underscores the transformative potential of literature as a catalyst for personal growth and self-improvement.

Furthermore, Xia Qing's proactive approach to reading, characterized by a focus on practical application and knowledge dissemination, exemplifies a holistic engagement with texts that transcends passive consumption. By advocating for active engagement with the material through practices such as note-taking, reflective writing, and knowledge sharing, she underscores the importance of internalizing and integrating the insights gained from reading into one's lived experiences.

Xia Qing's appreciation for books such as Educated: A Memoir and Biography of Zeng Guofan reflects her affinity for narratives that inspire resilience, self-improvement, and perseverance in the face of adversity. The profound impact of these works on her personal ethos and daily habits underscores the transformative influence of literature in shaping values, attitudes, and behaviors, underscoring the enduring power of storytelling as a vehicle for personal growth and self-discovery.

In essence, Xia Qing's profound reverence for the therapeutic and transformative potential of reading illuminates a deep-seated belief in the restorative power of literature as a source of emotional strength, intellectual enrichment, and personal growth. Her advocacy for patience, practice, and proactive engagement with texts serves as a testament to the enduring value of reading as a means of self-discovery, resilience, and enlightenment.

4) Ou, he School of Literature at South China Normal University

Ou, a dedicated student from the School of Literature at South China Normal University, exemplifies a profound passion for literature and a commitment to continuous self-improvement through the transformative power of reading. Despite his impressive borrowing volume of 543 books per year and his recognition as a reading expert at the university, Ou humbly acknowledges that his reading journey is a work in progress, marked by a deep sense of reverence for the boundless knowledge and wisdom contained within the pages of books.

Ou's introspective reflection on his reading habits reveals a nuanced understanding of the evolving nature of his relationship with literature, characterized by a sense of humility and a desire for deeper engagement with the texts he encounters. His admission of feeling a sense of shame despite his prolific reading habits underscores a genuine commitment to self-improvement and a recognition of the importance of internalizing and embodying the knowledge gleaned from his literary explorations.

Throughout his academic journey, Ou's love for literature has served as a guiding light, nurturing his intellectual curiosity and fostering a deep appreciation for the profound impact of storytelling on the human experience. His fond memories of encountering Mr. Mu Xin's works in the university library and the transformative effect of reading on his perception of literary figures highlight the enriching and enlightening influence of literature in shaping his worldview and personal growth.

Ou's belief in the transcendent power of reading as a form of self-discovery and intellectual enrichment is underscored by his observation that books serve as companions that enable meaningful dialogue with the minds of great writers across time and space. His recognition of the transformative potential of literature to spark emotional resonance and intellectual curiosity reflects a profound understanding of the profound impact of storytelling on personal growth and self-discovery.

Moreover, Ou's ability to derive joy and inspiration from reading, whether through travel literature or the profound reflections on humanity found in books, speaks to his eclectic literary tastes and his appreciation for the diverse insights and perspectives offered by different genres and authors. His recognition of reading as a form of mental and emotional enrichment underscores a deep-seated belief in the enduring value of literature as a source of joy, inspiration, and intellectual stimulation.

In essence, Ou's journey as a passionate reader and aspiring scholar embodies a profound reverence for the transformative power of literature in nurturing the mind, nourishing the soul, and fostering a lifelong love of learning. His unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge through reading serves as a testament to the enduring value of books as portals to new worlds, ideas, and experiences, underscoring the profound impact of literature in shaping one's intellectual curiosity, emotional resilience, and personal growth.