Taoyuan Library Launches Lunar New Year Reading Photo Contest

The Taoyuan Public Library is hosting a special event to celebrate the Lunar New Year, inviting families to share their “reading memories.” This initiative encourages participants to submit photographs that capture moments of family reading, with the contest running until February 1, 2024. Winning entries will receive limited-edition red envelopes, a traditional symbol during this festive season.

Library director Shih Chao-hui explained that the event aims to inspire families to reorganize their home bookshelves as part of their year-end cleaning rituals. He noted that this activity allows families to revisit the reading memories that have contributed to their children’s growth. “Participants are invited to submit a photograph of their family reading together, along with a recommendation of a book suitable for family reading,” Shih added. Submissions can be made through the Taoyuan Public Library’s website.

The winners of the contest will receive one of three styles of limited-edition Year of the Horse red envelope sets. Designed by paper artist Hung Hsin-fu, one set features envelopes that unfold into vibrant 3D designs. The other two styles, created by graphic designer Hsiao Yen-hsuan, showcase gold-foiled images of galloping horses combined with playful word arrangements. Shih highlighted that these envelopes transform traditional greetings into interactive experiences for children, making reading and sharing festive messages enjoyable.

A total of 600 sets of these unique red envelopes will be available, each accompanied by a square spring couplet. The top photographs submitted will not only earn a limited-edition notebook but will also be featured prominently on the library’s website and its video wall.

In a related initiative, the Changhua County Government has engaged calligraphy master Wu Chao-hsun from Lukang Township to inscribe couplets with the Year of the Horse greeting: “May your success soar high like a galloping horse” (馬躍騰達). Residents can collect these couplets free of charge at various government offices, including the service counter of Changhua County Hall. According to a county government official, “The couplets carry special significance, as Wu’s bold yet elegant brushstrokes seamlessly blend traditional calligraphic aesthetics with modern sensibilities.”

The official emphasized that these couplets symbolize the hope for thriving careers and families, akin to the vigor of a galloping steed. Additionally, the Taiwan Image Calligraphy Museum has unveiled its couplets for the year, focusing on the themes of “peace” (平安) and “smile” (笑). Museum director Chen Shih-hsien expressed the hope that these couplets would remind people to shed frustrations from the past year and embrace the new year with positivity and harmony.

The “peace” couplet is octagonal, symbolizing the warding off of misfortune while attracting good luck. Chen explained that the design incorporates English, making it accessible to a wider audience. The couplet features two golden strokes that resemble wings, signifying peace and safety. The “smile” couplet, on the other hand, is circular and represents a gentle smile, symbolizing reunion and fulfillment.

These community-driven initiatives highlight the cultural significance of reading and traditional celebrations, fostering a sense of togetherness as families prepare to welcome the Lunar New Year.