Taoyuan Library Launches Lunar New Year Reading Photo Contest

The Taoyuan Public Library has initiated a unique event to celebrate the Lunar New Year, inviting families to share their “reading memories” through photographs. The contest, which runs until February 1, 2024, aims to promote the joy of reading and will reward winning submissions with limited-edition red envelopes.

Library director Shih Chao-hui emphasized the significance of this initiative, urging families to reorganize their home bookshelves as part of their year-end cleaning. This activity is designed to help families revisit their reading experiences together. Participants can submit a photograph of their family reading alongside a recommendation for a suitable family book via the library’s website.

Winning entries will receive one of three styles of special Year of the Horse red envelope sets. One set is crafted by paper artist Hung Hsin-fu, featuring interactive couplets that unfold into vibrant 3D designs. The other two sets, designed by graphic artist Hsiao Yen-hsuan, showcase gold-foiled images of galloping horses and unique word arrangements that encourage playful reading experiences.

According to Shih, “The envelopes can be unfolded in different ways to combine words, making it a fun and interactive way for children to read out Lunar New Year greetings and experience the joy of reading.” A total of 600 sets of these envelopes will be available, which also include a square spring couplet.

In addition to the envelopes, top photographs will be awarded a limited-edition notebook and will be showcased on the library’s website and video wall.

Related Celebrations in Changhua County

In a related initiative, the Changhua County Government has invited calligraphy master Wu Chao-hsun from Lukang Township to inscribe couplets that celebrate the new year with the greeting: “May your success soar high like a galloping horse” (馬躍騰達). Residents can obtain these couplets free of charge at various county government service points, including the county hall and township offices.

A county official noted, “The couplets carry special significance, as Wu’s bold yet elegant brushstrokes seamlessly blend traditional calligraphic aesthetics with modern sensibilities,” highlighting the hope that both careers and families will thrive.

Separately, the Taiwan Image Calligraphy Museum has unveiled its two couplets for the year, focusing on the themes of “peace” (平安) and “smile” (笑). Designed by museum director Chen Shih-hsien, these couplets serve as a reminder to release the frustrations of the past year and embrace the new year with positivity.

Chen explained that the “peace” couplet is octagonal, symbolizing the warding off of misfortune while attracting good luck. The design incorporates English text to make it more accessible. It features strokes that symbolize wings, representing peace “landing safely.”

The “smile” couplet is circular, depicting a gentle curve that signifies reunion and fulfillment. These artistic expressions aim to inspire and uplift the community as they welcome the new year.

Through these initiatives, both the Taoyuan Public Library and Changhua County aim to foster a sense of community and promote the cultural significance of reading and traditional celebrations during the Lunar New Year.