Zhang Yuanji Library

Zhang Yuanji Library

The Zhang Yuanji Library is located at No. 6 Wenchang East Road, Wuyuan Town, covering an area of 12 mu. It is an antique-style building rich in ethnic architectural features and elements of Jiangnan garden design. The lintel bears the library’s name inscribed by Comrade –.

The courtyard features dark-tiled walls, winding bridges over ponds, connected pavilions, and lush flowers and trees. In addition to offering comprehensive public library services, it also has a dedicated Commercial Press Edition Reading Room and a Memorial Room for Mr. Zhang Yuanji.

The memorial room houses a half-length white marble statue of Zhang Yuanji, as well as displays of his works, manuscripts, and materials on his life and achievements.

Zhang Yuanji: A native of Wuyuan Town, Haiyan. He was a renowned modern Chinese publisher, one of the founders of the Commercial Press, and an influential figure in China's cultural circles.

In 1902, Zhang Yuanji joined the Commercial Press as the head of the Compilation Department. He led the press’s compilation and publishing efforts, and as both a scholar and a publisher, he established a monumental legacy in the history of modern Chinese cultural development.

After the liberation, he successively served as a member of the East China Military and Political Committee, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, a deputy to the National People’s Congress, and the director of the Shanghai Museum of Literature and History. In September 1949, Zhang Yuanji was invited to attend the First Plenary Session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and the founding ceremony of New China in Beijing as a special delegate. During this time, Mao Zedong, –, –, and – met with him in succession. He was also personally received by Chairman Mao Zedong on two occasions.