Beijing is keen to encourage individuals to run their own libraries in the nation's capital city, and a local law has been adopted, promising tax incentives for private libraries.
The city is encouraging individuals, companies and organizations to open libraries or support local libraries by donating money, books and equipment, according to the new law that is due to come into effect as of November 1 this year.
Lack of funds, outdated management systems and shortage of professionals had hampered the development of libraries in Beijing, said Zhang Heping, director of the city administration of culture.
There are 7,309 libraries in the city that has a population of more than 11 million.
(Xinhua News Agency July 22, 2002)
