Why are people warmed by library message books
2025-08-22
A reader's message book from the Hongkou District Library in Shanghai suddenly became popular online. Opening it, the handwriting inside is diverse, some messy, some neat, and the content is also varied: there are concerns about the water quality of the water dispenser, complaints about the temperature of the air conditioner, and children's graffiti. Surprisingly, every message from a reader is responded to by the library management below. A blogger shared it online and called this message book "Doraemon's message book". This video quickly gained tens of thousands of likes and thousands of comments. Many places have suggestion boxes and message boards, but in people's impression, their practicality is often questionable. Especially in the era of social media, how many people would expect to be quickly responded to by writing a few sentences in a physical notebook? Unfortunately, in the message book of Hongkou District Library, there are many small wishes, desires, emotions, and feelings flowing between us. They have their origins, exits, and echoes. Someone suggested placing a few chairs in the dining area, which was quickly implemented; Someone questioned the water quality, so the staff simply posted the test report. This message, you can see the progress next time. Readers' messages are not talking to themselves, but can bring practical changes. For demands that cannot be met, there will also be clear explanations. For example, the reason given by the museum for whether to place a microwave in the self-service area is that there is a safety risk and it does not match the location of the venue. Refusing is not perfunctory, but rather makes people understand the considerations involved. Because of this, even if opinions are not adopted, timely feedback reduces people's resentment. Responding to these messages seriously does not require much investment from the library management, but the sincere attitude it conveys is invaluable. The deputy director of the museum said, 'Perhaps seriousness has become rare now, so it attracts attention.' This statement is thought-provoking. Conscience should not be a scarce commodity, but should become a standard for public services. For example, not long ago at Pudong Airport, a passenger saw staff holding cushions to pick up boxes next to the luggage carousel, trying to avoid collisions. This action was so simple that it couldn't be simpler, but it made many people stop and watch. The charm of public services often lies in these trivial and delicate aspects. People are warmed by message books because they embody the qualities that public services should possess: they don't need to be constantly stunning, but reliable everywhere; It doesn't have to be spectacular, but great form Is beyond shape. Looking forward to this thoughtful and considerate service becoming a natural norm without relying on the kindness of any individual or organization. Besides practicality, the message book also has another function - social attributes. There are not only appeals and responses here, but also debates among readers. Some people find the study room cold, some find it hot, and some think it's just right. Different opinions meet on the same page, and the library has announced the temperature setting regulations and reminded everyone to change seats, which may be more comfortable. The message book has become a small community forum, which is not as complex and open as online forums. Only readers who are also in the library are participants. In this way, the topics discussed are more in line with reality, and the attitudes towards discussion are more gentle and rational. We are readers and neighbors who look up but not down, supporting the civilized atmosphere of a community. The serious service provided by the management, rational discussions among readers, interesting graffiti, and different insights... In the small message book, the background of civilization is painted, reflecting the temperature of the city. It is a corner of the library's scenery and a template for community public life: appeals are seen, differences are tolerated, there is space for communication, and civilization thrives through effective interactions time and time again. (New Society)
Edit:Luo yu Responsible editor:Wang xiao jing
Source:China Youth Daily
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