Jongno-gu public libraries and local bookstores team up for July programs that bring humanities and culture into everyday life — all free of charge
Jongno-gu (district mayor Jung Mun-heon) is launching a reading culture program that connects residents, books and the local community through its library-bookstore partnership project.
The initiative was designed to invigorate the reading culture ecosystem and build a foundation for libraries and bookstores to thrive together. By combining the public cultural infrastructure of libraries with the expertise and character of independent bookstores, the project aims to bring humanities and cultural content closer to residents' daily lives.
The program runs from July 4 to July 25 at Jongno-gu public libraries and four participating local bookstores.
On July 4, Sowon Chaekdam bookstore will host "Neighborhood Steps, Book Footprints," a medical museum tour program for teenagers and adults. On July 14, Samcheong Park Forest Library will hold a "Moderator Book Club," where participants join a reading discussion led by a publishing editor.
On July 15, Cheongun Literature Library will present "Between Life and Work," a session with photographer Lee Ye-eun, author of "Settling in Midair." On July 18 and July 25, upper-grade elementary school students can take part in "Amazing Ecological Field Guide," a nature observation and journaling program.
All programs are free. Further details are available on the Jongno-gu public library website.
The library-bookstore partnership goes beyond simple reading activities, making active use of Jongno's distinctive character and spatial resources. Through the programs, residents can rediscover their neighborhood bookstores and find new opportunities to connect with one another through books within the local community.
Jongno-gu plans to continue linking public libraries with local cultural hubs to pursue a range of projects that improve residents' quality of life.
"I hope this program, put together by libraries and local bookstores, brings residents fresh reading experiences and cultural enjoyment," district mayor Jung said. "I look forward to everyone discovering the charm of our neighborhood cultural spaces firsthand."
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