Reading a book in a forest ...

Beijing – Every weekend, hundreds of bookworms flock to Liyuan Library in Jiaojiehe, a book sanctuary surrounded by trees.

The lush environment is what first drew architect Li Xiaodong to the village – the library has a steel and glass base but its facade is cladded with branches and twigs arranged in vertical rows.

With space for just 40 people, visitors queue to enter the library, which only opens on weekends.

“We have now banned taking pictures inside, as some people come here just for taking pictures,” owner Pan Xi said. –