Used book space

The largest commercial district in Thanh Hoa City is densely packed with shops and stores, always bustling with activity. Promotional events are frequently held here, attracting large crowds of people.

I've always been averse to crowded places like that, so even though I pass by the area every day, I rarely pay attention. That was until one time, while waiting for an appointment, I strolled along the sidewalk in front of Vincom Shopping Center and was drawn to a used book fair.

Old books, like many other old things, are often overlooked in the digital age of visual culture, with e-books readily available. Convenient search engines allow people to quickly access any information and read their desired books at very low cost. So why bother choosing books, especially old ones, at book fairs that only happen occasionally? I seem to share that sentiment, like many others.

I stopped to observe, and the first thing that caught my attention was the young people. In a place full of old books, meaning works belonging to the past—for example, books on romantic literature, revolutionary war themes, or perhaps even famous novels from Western literature of previous centuries—I always assumed that those interested in such books were at least from my generation or earlier. Young people have plenty of books for young people, as a large number of young writers with youthful works have emerged in the last decade or so. Yet, quite a few young people still come to the old book fair. Is it perhaps out of curiosity rather than a genuine need? I thought so and decided to step inside. Many people were browsing through the books on the tables. Some young people, seemingly unable to contain their curiosity, sat down on the floor by the aisle to read old books right there at the fair.

There are some very encouraging signs of a resurgence in the noisy, pragmatic, and even extremist views that have recently imposed restrictions on reading culture. Leaving the used book fair, I recall reading an article about libraries and old book reading rooms in the province. Those who love old books have established these reading spaces, and they have received a positive response from other old book lovers.

Many people still maintain the habit of reading and collecting old books and newspapers, which can be seen as a unique cultural beauty amidst the "digital age." Having gone through ups and downs, old books may no longer be in perfect condition, but they are valuable assets, a bridge between the past and the present. Those who seek out old books also carry a mission of revival, so that old books are no longer just discarded items as people think.

Used book fairs and spaces selling used books may not be glamorous, but they are gradually becoming a popular destination for many people. In Thanh Hoa province, a few individuals have organized used book reading rooms, with organizers not prioritizing commercial value. These are simple actions, but their value is extraordinary. Used books still have a certain value, so let's let them awaken and benefit society by creating more spaces for readers to interact with used books.

Hanh Nhien

Source: https://baothanhhoa.vn/khong-gian-sach-cu-235882.htm