Ah, I see you're approaching the Xin Jin Shan Chinese Library! It’s located at 200 Sturt Street on the corner of Lydiard and Sturt Streets, in what's known as the former bank building. So keep your eyes peeled for a historic-looking structure with a touch of modern sophistication.
Let’s dive into the story behind this gem:
The Xin Jin Shan Chinese Library is a treasure trove of Chinese-language books here in Ballarat, Victoria, and thanks to the efforts of Haoliang Sun and many generous donors, it boasts the largest collection of Chinese-language books in the Southern Hemisphere, with over 240,000 documents!
Now, let's paint the scene: Founded by Haoliang Sun, a retired philosopher and educator, the Library has an intriguing origin story. It started out in a garage-just like many great endeavors (Apple computers, anyone?). Xin Jin Shan, which means 'New Gold Mountain,' pays homage to the Chinese immigrants who flocked to the Victorian goldfields in the 1850s. At one point, a quarter of Ballarat's population was Chinese, seeking fortune and contributing to the local culture.
The Library holds an impressive array of books, categorized into sections ranging from education to Chinese literature, and even includes some very rare manuscripts, like an 1857 Chinese Bible from the gold rush era. You’ll also find some classic pieces like the Bencao Gangmu.
And don’t miss the visual treat at the entrance-a captivating painting by Shen Jiawei, titled 'Silent Dialogue.' It elegantly depicts Guboo Ted Thomas, an Aboriginal Australian leader with a Chinese mother, blending the rich histories of both cultures.
It's not just books that make this place special. The Library also serves as an education and research center, reflecting the substantial Chinese Australian heritage in the region.
So, step inside and get ready to be pulled into a world where history, culture, and knowledge intermingle. And if you feel like sharing a fact or two with someone later, you’ll leave with a goldmine of stories to tell!
