Peking University, Feb. 15, 2015: November 28, 2014 witnessed the opening of the first university manga reading room in China: PKU Manga Reading Room.

Affiliated to Tokyo International Manga Library of Meiji University, PKU Manga Reading Room receives the bulk of its collections from Meiji University. Situated in the New Building of School of Foreign Languages, this compact 100-square-meter reading room holds over 7,000 copies of original manga version, displaying diversified manga styles of different generations. The quantity of its holdings is hoped to rise to 20,000 next semester. The reading room also collects a small number of domestic animation magazines and light novels, reflecting the process of acceptance of manga culture in China.

Japanese comic strip Legend of the Galactic Heroes in PKU Manga Reading Room

Professor Teng Jun from Japanese Department of PKU reckons manga as a useful auxiliary to the study of Japanese language, art and history. Manga Reading Room makes it available for students to study manga history and culture systematically. The establishment of this specialized reading room also sets an example for other domestic universities. “Peking University plays a leading role in introducing manga culture to the masses,” she said.

Gundam plastic model displayed in PKU Manga Reading Room

Manga Reading Room especially appeals to members of Original Fire Animation Society at PKU. As the first and only animation society at PKU, Original Fire holds varied activities for manga lovers, both recreational and academic. The opening of Manga Reading Room affords great opportunity for members of Original Fire to enjoy their hobby. More importantly, as the president of Original Fire Xu Zhibing said, students should meanwhile “reflect on how to develop Chinese animation and comic in our own style.”

Now Manga Reading Room is open to PKU Japanese majors and members of Original Fire only. It is expected to be accessible to all faculties and students next semester.

Written by: Li Ruiqi
Edited by: Yan Shengnan
Source: pkuyouth (Wechat)