Check In at China’s Kunming Industrial-Style Library: A Former Factory Transformed into a Provincial “Travel and Residence” Library

If you’re captivated by unique architectural spaces and enchanted by the ambiance of books, then this “hidden gem” in Kunming, China, is a must-visit. The Yunfang “Sawtooth Factory” Branch of the Wuhua District Library, with its striking industrial heritage and innovative public cultural service model, has proudly earned its place among Yunnan Province’s first batch of “Provincial Travel and Residence Libraries.” More than just a repository of books, this library is a stellar example of the seamless integration of industrial heritage, cultural innovation, and public service.

A Journey Through Time: The Past and Present of the 1950s Soviet-Style “Sawtooth Factory”

Stepping into this library feels like traveling back to the 1950s. The building carries a rich historical legacy: constructed in 1956, it embodies the classic Soviet architectural style, with its distinctive slanted, sawtooth-shaped roof, affectionately dubbed the “Sawtooth Factory” by locals.

Hou Haikun, the customer service manager of the Yunfang Group, explained the ingenuity of this design: “The most unique feature of this building is its north-facing lighting. No matter how intense the outdoor light, the sunlight streaming through the windows remains soft, creating an ideal environment for reading.”

Today, this is no mere historical relic but a vibrant example of “adaptive reuse.” The old factory of the Yunnan Textile Group has been meticulously transformed, preserving its industrial aesthetic while being repurposed as a modern public library. From exposed beams to retro-style decorations, every corner tells the story of Kunming’s textile industry.

Beyond Books: A Cultural Hub for Reading, Exhibitions, and Educational Activities

Beyond its striking architectural exterior, the Yunfang “Sawtooth Factory” Branch of the Wuhua District Library offers a wealth of resources and activities for both locals and visitors.

Another manager from the Yunfang Group introduced the library’s collection: “The library houses 10,000 books, covering more than ten categories, including art, culture, education, and science. Whether you want to dive into a novel, explore local history, or delve into art theory, you’ll find the perfect book here.”

The library’s role extends far beyond reading. It regularly hosts art exhibitions and educational programs, transforming into a dynamic platform for cultural exchange. These initiatives not only meet the diverse cultural needs of Kunming’s residents but also inject vitality into the city’s “Book-Fragrant Kunming” initiative.

One of the most striking features is the display of historical photographs lining the walls, capturing moments from the Yunnan Textile Factory’s journey from the early 20th century to the 1970s and 1980s. These images offer a glimpse into the factory’s “golden era.”

Previously, the site housed 2 ton gantry cranes, which once played a critical role in industrial settings like textile factories, moving heavy yarn rolls, loom components, and storage crates to ensure smooth production. For safety and aesthetic reasons, these cranes have since been removed. Looking up, visitors can see wooden objects adorned with yarn hanging in the main hall. The library director explained: “These are wooden molds. During the factory’s operational days, parts were expensive, so workers created these molds to cast affordable replacements through sand molding, significantly reducing costs. They’re not just decorations—they embody the wisdom of past generations of workers.”

In its earlier days, the Yunnan Textile Factory (now the Yunfang “Sawtooth Factory” Library) relied on bridge cranes to efficiently handle heavy textile machinery and transport large raw materials, greatly boosting production efficiency. These efforts contributed significantly to local economic growth and provided jobs for many residents. However, with advancements in industrial equipment and automation, machines like the 3 ton overhead crane gradually replaced some manual labor, leading to workforce transitions. Today, the old factory has shed its industrial shell to become a modern library filled with the scent of books, completing a heartwarming transformation from a “production workshop” to a “cultural space.”

Visitor Guide: Opening Hours and Highlights

The library is free to the public, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays (special holiday hours may vary, subject to official announcements).

Since being designated a “Provincial Travel and Residence Library,” the library has taken on a new mission: promoting the deep integration of culture and tourism. It aims to entice travelers passing through Kunming to pause, immerse themselves in books, and experience the city’s industrial heritage culture. This is not just a reading space but a unique window into Kunming’s history and culture.

Conclusion

In an era where many libraries feel increasingly similar, the Yunfang “Sawtooth Factory” Branch stands out as a model of modernizing historical spaces. It pays homage to Kunming’s past, serves as a cultural resource for today’s residents, and will become a compelling city landmark for future visitors. The library regularly hosts free lectures, exhibitions, and reading events, establishing signature programs like the Reading Festival, Winter Solstice Gathering, Qipao Show Salon, Comic Book Salon, Modern Wellness Salon, and Hand-Brewed Coffee Competition. Since its establishment, it has fulfilled its core mission of spreading scientific and cultural knowledge while providing educational and public cultural services.

Whether you’re a traveler planning a trip to Yunnan and seeking a unique stop, or a local resident looking for a quiet reading haven, this industrial-style library is well worth a visit. Come explore and immerse yourself in the blend of books and history, experiencing the unique charm of Kunming!