The Ministry of Planning and Budget has opened a new library, 'Seodamjae,' at the Government Sejong Complex, designed for employee relaxation and communication. The library aims to grow as a collaborative space that curates books in partnership with local bookstores and hosts cultural events featuring regional authors.
On July 16, the ministry held an opening ceremony at the newly established Seodamjae on the sixth floor of Building 5 in the Government Sejong Complex, attended by Minister Park Hong-geun, representatives from local bookstores, regional authors, and employees.
The name 'Seodamjae' was chosen through an internal contest, meaning 'a space where books (書) and stories (談) reside.' The ministry has transformed the traditional library model, moving away from a bookcase-centered design to a lounge-style space where employees can relax and engage with books.
In line with the expansion of electronic book services, the library has reduced its shelving space while increasing areas for relaxation and conversation. The ministry plans to operate Seodamjae as an open cultural space that grows alongside the community, rather than just a place for borrowing books.
During the first part of the opening ceremony, two local bookstores, 'Kkume Mun-go Second Story' and 'Bookstore Ait,' signed agreements with the ministry. This collaboration aims to support local small businesses and incorporate the unique book curation of local bookstores into the library's operations.
As part of the agreement, a 'One-Shelf Bookstore Corner' will be established in Seodamjae. Local bookstores will propose monthly themes and provide book supplies along with recommended reading comments. This initiative seeks to move away from the uniform selection of bestsellers and large distribution networks, reflecting the tastes and insights of local bookstores.
Books requested by employees will also be purchased through local bookstores. The ministry aims to broaden employees' reading experiences while continuing to expand collaboration with local bookstores.
The second part of the event featured local author Kim Yi-seol, who conducted a book concert themed 'Reading Novels that Reflect on Life.' Following the lecture, a time for open dialogue with employees was arranged to share the comfort and reflection that books provide.
The ministry plans to continue hosting small cultural events, such as book concerts with local authors. The goal is to make Seodamjae a welcoming space for employees and a cultural hub connected to the local community.
In his speech, Minister Park stated, 'Local bookstores are the roots of the cultural ecosystem and a cultural hub for residents. I hope Seodamjae will embrace the cultural diversity that small local bookstores have preserved and establish itself as an open cultural space that connects people and the community through books.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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