Heping Library — a 24-hour oasis in the heart of Shanghai
Print Edition
LOOKING for a quiet indoor spot in Shanghai where you can spend the entire day, a place to sip coffee, read, study, work or simply daydream? You won’t want to miss this gem — Heping Library — a 24-hour library tucked away in a Shanghai park.
This serene space sits inside Heping Park, a green oasis in the heart of Hongkou District. The park itself is also open 24 hours and near major universities such as Tongji University, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Fudan University and Shanghai University of Sport, giving the area a strong academic and cultural vibe. Right next door is the Shanghai Education Television Station.
If you’re simply looking for a quiet place to read, study or work, this spot is perfect. You can read and borrow books here.
However, most of the collection is in Chinese. There is only a special shelf for foreign-language books. If you happen to be an international student at a nearby university, it could become an optional place once your campus library closes.
You’ll find the library near Gate 5 of Heping Park. Rather than a single building, it’s a beautiful complex that includes the General Hall, Children’s Hall, Heping Art Gallery and Kan Cha She, plus a surrounding green lawn.
Heping Library
Address: 891 Tianbao Road, inside Heping Park (near Gate 5) Transport: Metro Line 8 or Line 10, Siping Road Station
General Hall
From afar, the General Hall looks like a giant tent with a wooden roof shaped like fluttering book pages. The transparent second floor floats above boxy structures below, giving it a striking modern look.
Inside, you’ll find a staffed service desk and self-checkout machines. With a 100 yuan (US$13.88) deposit, you can get a library card and access tens of thousands of books.
If you already have a Shanghai Library card, you can use it here too, or just scan your ID card or Suishenma QR code.
If you’re a foreigner, remember to bring your passport to register for a library card. The front desk staff might be able to help you, if you’re lucky enough to meet someone who speaks English. Of course, if your Chinese is good, then
A special shelf for foreign-language booksno worries. An even better option would be to register directly at the Shanghai Library.
During the day, part of the first floor operates as a cafe where a purchase is required to sit. After 9pm, the cafe closes, and the space transforms into a quiet reading area, becoming a peaceful haven for late-night readers.
A winding staircase leads up to the second floor, where spacious reading zones are filled with shelves and large communal desks. There are outlets, USB ports, HDMI jacks and wireless charging stations.
One of the terraces upstairs faces the park’s greenery. Reading with a view of trees? Yes, please.
Children’s Hall
The Children’s Hall and the General Hall have similar layouts, featuring traditional Chinese-style roofs paired with large glass windows. The two buildings stand side by side, connected by shared eaves.
Inside, the design combines soft shades of gray-blue, green and white, with charming arched doors that add a playful yet elegant touch.
Books for younger kids are placed lower and displayed face-out, making them easy to browse. There are also cozy window seats and a play-reading area with mats for toddlers (shoes off required). Many parents enjoy sitting in this area, happily reading with their children.
Outside the area, there are additional reading spaces and tables, where you’ll often find children doing their homework in the evening.
Older children can find more advanced reading on the second floor, including a section of original English titles.
Bathrooms are family-friendly, and the second-floor terrace has fun spinning chairs for kids, while adults can relax on the steps.
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