Knowledge Dissemination and Social Functions: The Multiple Roles of Shanghai Libraries in the late Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China

Abstract

This study focuses on the multi-dimensional function of Shanghai libraries in academic exchange and social functions from the late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China. Through the analysis of the social dynamic changes of Shanghai in this historical period, the first thing is to outline the social evolution of the late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China, and reveal the role of Shanghai as an important city in China. Then, the paper reviews the development of Shanghai Libraries since its establishment in detail, and emphasizes its cornerstone position in the collection, storage and cataloguing of document resources, especially its effectiveness in promoting the popularization of national education and promoting international cultural communication. In addition, the paper further discusses its function as a public place for leisure study, as well as its role in promoting social enlightenment and urban historical and cultural inheritance. By reflecting on the function and limitation of Shanghai Libraries in the historical moment and evaluating it from a fair and impartial perspective, this can provide historical reference for the construction and forward-looking planning of modern libraries. To sum up, Shanghai Libraries plays a key role in the central zone of knowledge circulation. In fact, it is a cultural institution that drives social innovation. In the long river from the late Qing Dynasty to the Republic of China, its historical position is irreplaceable.