Sight
Guangzhou Library
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The Guangzhou Library is a striking contemporary building located in the heart of the city's new central business district, Zhujiang New Town. Opened in 2013, the library covers over 100,000 square meters and houses millions of books, periodicals, and digital resources. Its design, by Japanese architect Nikken Sekkei, features a distinctive stacked-book appearance and a spacious atrium flooded with natural light. The library offers reading rooms for various subjects, children's areas, exhibition halls, and a rooftop garden. Visitors can browse open shelves, use computers, attend lectures, or simply relax in the quiet reading zones. The library is a hub for cultural activities, hosting author talks, workshops, and art exhibitions. Its location near the Canton Tower and the Guangdong Museum makes it a convenient stop on a tour of the district. The experience is one of modern efficiency and cultural richness, with friendly staff and multilingual signage. The library is free to enter and is popular with students, researchers, and families.
Don't miss
- Explore the vast collection of books, including rare Chinese texts and international publications
- Visit the children's library with interactive learning spaces
- Attend a free lecture or cultural event in the exhibition halls
- Enjoy panoramic views of Zhujiang New Town from the rooftop garden
- Use the digital resources and multimedia stations for research
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Guangzhou Library
You don't need a tour to visit, entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Guangzhou Library with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inGuangzhou Tour Guide and Car Service With Flexible Itinerary5★ · 36 travelers7-8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →
Most bookedGuided Cycle Tour of Guangzhou4.9★ · 174 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$80 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Guangzhou Tech Tour AI Robot AutoDrive Drone Delivery etc5★ · 50 travelers4-10 hoursFrom$200 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Getting there
Know before you go
- Bring a passport or ID if you wish to borrow books, as registration is required.
- Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the library.
- There is a café on the ground floor for refreshments.
- Silence is observed in reading areas; use designated zones for phone calls.
A bit of history
The Guangzhou Library was established in 1933, but the current building opened on October 1, 2013, as part of the city's cultural development plan. It replaced an older, smaller facility and now serves as a major public library for the region.
Common questions
Is the library open to tourists?
Yes, everyone is welcome to enter and read. Borrowing requires a library card.
Are there English books?
Yes, there is a section with English-language books and international periodicals.
Can I take photos inside?
Photography is allowed in most areas, but flash and tripods are prohibited.
Is there a guided tour?
Guided tours are not regularly offered, but you can explore on your own with a map available at the information desk.
How do I get a library card?
Visit the registration desk with your passport and a fee (refundable deposit). The card is free for residents.
What are the opening hours?
Typically 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, but closed on Mondays. Check the official website for holiday hours.
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