In December 2024, the library successfully hosted the "Whispers of the Past - 2024 Library Cultural Carnival Series." This event, centered around ancient book culture, featured exhibitions, hands-on experiences, and technological integration, inviting faculty and students to embark on a timeless journey to appreciate the wisdom and romance carried by ancient books.
The event kicked off with the exhibition "Birth of a Book" which focused on the production methods of ancient books, showcasing their beauty and the craftsmanship involved at various stages of their creation.
Figure 1. Scene from the exhibition
In the multifunctional hall, participants enthusiastically engaged in the "The Artisan’s Touch - Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience." During the thread-bound book-making session, the library specially prepared Zhejiang University ancient book pages. Over ten participants meticulously threaded, knotted, and attached bookmarks, creating exquisite "ancient book notebooks" filled with a sense of accomplishment. The woodblock printing experience, seemingly simple, required precise control of force—too much pressure caused ink smudging, while too little resulted in incomplete prints of the "Confucius image." Each reveal of the paper felt like opening a "surprise blind box," blending anticipation and anxiety. The stone rubbing experience, a new addition this year, featured auspicious patterns like "Joy," "Good Fortune," and "Auspicious Clouds," which were well-received by participants who eagerly tried their hand at it.
Figure 2. Participants making thread-bound books
Figure 3. Participants experiencing stone rubbing
Figure 4. Participants showcasing their work
Figure 5. Participants leaving messages
The "Journey Through Time - VR Experience 'Ancient Book Quest'" added a fascinating blend of technology and history to the event. In the library's atrium, over 20 participants were drawn to the four legendary VR experiences, which transported them through time to explore the worlds of Oracle Bones, Ming and Qing Archives, Han Bamboo Slips, and Dunhuang Manuscripts, immersing them in the depth and mystery of history.
Figure 6. Participants experiencing VR games
Figure 7. Participants experiencing VR games
This event not only allowed everyone to appreciate the charm of ancient book culture but also deepened their understanding and love for traditional culture. We look forward to more meaningful cultural activities in the future, allowing ancient book culture to shine even brighter.
Text&Photo: Qin Difan
Translation: Xiong Weiwei