Preserving ancient books for present and future

The burgeoning art form of ancient book restoration finds new enthusiasts eager to save the treasures of the printed word.

At 30, Li Yangyang never imagined that her degree in international business would lead her to a career in ancient book restoration. From starting as a novice in the workplace to founding her own restoration studio, she spent six years carving out a niche in this specialized field.

Today, she not only restores valuable ancient texts but also inspires lots of young people to engage with this traditional craft through social media. Li's journey reflects the transformation of ancient book restoration from a perceived "old craft" into a vibrant, emerging field amid a broader revival of traditional culture.

In 2017, Li, a native of Wuhan in Hubei province, had just graduated from college and was exploring various job opportunities. Despite trying several roles, she felt unfulfilled.