Tibet opens rare ancient books to readers worldwide

Arduous efforts behind the achievement

In 2009, Tibet launched its largest ever survey of ancient books. Over the past decade, the surveyors have traveled to every corner of the region that covers more than 1.2 million square km, with the goal of preserving every last ancient book.

"It's hard to describe my excitement when I find rare books and learn unknown history from them in the survey work," said Nyishar, head of the ancient classics department of the center.

As part of the survey work, a book discovered by Nyishar proved the history of Tibetan engraving printing stretches back at least a century earlier than previous research had indicated.

The workers have also discovered and rescued a large number of precious ancient books with great literary, cultural and artistic values. Some of the books were once believed to be lost.

"After more than 10 years' efforts, we have made great progress in the survey work, but there is still a long way to go," said Penpa Tsering.

He added the center expects to receive suggestions and feedback from experts, scholars and users at home and abroad to help tackle the problems the team is facing such as the digital identification of the books.

"Tibet is sharing these precious ancient books with the world, which not only reflects the cultural confidence of China, but provides huge convenience for the researchers of Tibetan studies," said Yeshe Zangpo, an official with the regional government.

"We hope to let more valuable ancient books come alive and better serve the society and all mankind," he added.