Mingfu Library – Shanghai’s Hidden Scientific Gem

Tucked away at 235 South Shaanxi Road, Mingfu Library occupies a cluster of three heritage buildings—Mingfu, Huixin, and Lele halls—rooted in Shanghai’s scientific and civic awakening. Opened in 1931, the Mingfu Building was China’s first purpose-built public science library, named to honor Dr. Hu Mingfu, the nation’s first mathematics PhD and co-founder of the China Science Society. From the street, its elegant clean-lined façade hints at the modernist ideals within . Stepping into the library’s interior is like walking into a living time capsule. The main building still holds original steel windows, bookshelves, and a five-level stack accessible by an old book lift—though the latter is no longer in use. Discover quiet reading rooms, a historic exhibition space dedicated to its origins, and a heritage column hall where the China Democratic League was founded. The atmosphere is a curated blend of hushed reflection and scholarly legacy . Daily life here mixes the old and new: modern amenities like self-service kiosks, digital lending, and curated exhibitions coexist alongside century-old architecture. The Huixin Hall features Spanish-style charm, while the modern Lele Hall hosts multimedia and children’s areas—yet all remain united by a gentle scholarly spirit. The names and legacy of Dr. Hu Mingfu and the China Science Society pervade the space, reminding visitors this is more than a library—it’s a symbol of Shanghai’s scientific heritage and civic ideals . Open for public use (though some rooms require reservation), Mingfu Library is free to enter and a five-minute walk from Shaanxi South Road or Jiashan Road Metro stations. If you enjoy historic architecture with a scholarly soul, or seek quiet corners steeped in science history, this tranquil oasis in the heart of Shanghai is a beautifully preserved treasure. #shanghaionbudget