Gao Xuemiao binds a restored ancient book at Tianjin Library in north China's Tianjin Municipality, April 22, 2024. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)
Tianjin Library is home to a collection of 590,000 ancient books and has conducted ancient book restoration work for over 70 years.
Gao Xuemiao, 38, leads the restoration team at the library. He is the first restoration expert with a background in chemistry since the establishment of the department in 1978.
Nowadays, ancient book restoration is increasingly viewed as a cross-disciplinary process. The incorporation of chemical and biological methods brings the process a more scientific dimension. "We conducted chemical analyses before the restoration process to find the matched paper, and make tailored plans for each ancient book," Gao said.
Gao Xuemiao selects paper samples for ancient book restoration at Tianjin Library in north China's Tianjin Municipality, April 22, 2024. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)
Hamas official says no agreement with Israel if war continues in Gaza
In pictures: 2024 Rātana celebrations
The royals have historically been tight
COP28 deal 'significant step forward', Climate Change Minister says
Music and martial arts witness China
In pictures: 2024 Rātana celebrations
Claw and order after toddler gets stuck in toy machine
Claw and order after toddler gets stuck in toy machine
Chinese citizen killed, another wounded in mass stabbing attack at Sydney mall
New law to give police, courts greater powers in gang crackdown
Syrian, Russian forces destroy 'terrorist' strongholds in N. Syria
Cyclone Gabrielle: Helicopter pilot recalls emotions, panic during rescue operation