The Nantong Economic & Technological Development Area (NETDA) has made it a priority to establish recreational areas for locals, according to local media on Dec 15.

The NETDA applied to the provincial government for 3.5 million yuan ($535,258) in special funds to set up 29 book bars and four study rooms in the development zone.

The book bars are located in the Longtian Community Comprehensive Cultural Center, a recreational center for locals.

Retirees will spontaneously form musical bands or dancing groups, play instruments, and practice dancing at the center.

In the book bars, children can read and share their favorite stories with each other.

"My son loves to listen to stories and read picture books. I used to accompany him to the library by bus, but now he can borrow books and bring them back home, which is much more convenient," said the mother of Han Haisong at a book bar on Dec. 7.