[Provided by Seoul Metropolitan Government]
[Provided by Seoul Metropolitan Government]

Seoul's Geumcheon-gu will run an outdoor library called "Chaekildneun Chaekdalsaem" (Reading Books, Book Spring) at Geumnare Central Park from Wednesday through Nov. 1, the district announced Tuesday.

The district set up the outdoor library so residents can relax and read in the park. Beyond open-air reading spaces, the event will also feature performances and hands-on programs, making it a cultural outing for the whole family.

Professional librarians will curate and display recommended books organized by theme. This year's theme is "Encounters," with each of Geumcheon-gu's four public libraries contributing titles that reflect their areas of specialization — Gasan Library on "Youth, Meeting the Future," Geumnare Library on "Family, Meeting Each Other," Doksan Library on "Art, Meeting Life," and Siheung Library on "History, Meeting Today."

Books at the outdoor library are available to read freely without any borrowing application or registration. Bean bags, camping chairs and parasols will be provided for comfortable reading. A quiet "book-gazing zone" will also be set up for those who want to read in silence or simply sit with their thoughts.

Performances and activities will run throughout the event. Each evening will feature a different genre — Disney soundtrack concerts, a cinema concert, a piano trio and a family musical, among others. Residents can also take part in virtual reality experiences and mini-fragrance-making workshops. Author meet-and-greet sessions are scheduled for Wednesday at 5 p.m. with Hong Min-jeong, author of "Kkamnyang the Cat Fixer," and Friday at 5 p.m. with Lee Na-yeong, author of "Silruk the Constipation Detective."

The library will be open weekdays from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Operations may be suspended in the event of rain to protect visitors and the books.

"I hope residents worn out by their busy daily lives can find a moment of peace reading outdoors," Geumcheon-gu District Mayor Choi Ki-chan said. "We will continue working to help residents enjoy reading and a variety of cultural activities as part of their everyday lives."


cook@heraldcorp.com