As the roots of the world’s most renowned children’s book exhibition began to grow in Taiwan, the Kaohsiung Public Library (KPL) formally wrote a new chapter in its future development with the opening of “Windows to the World: The Bologna Collection.” Located at the Main Library's International Picture Book Center, the new section features 199 curated picture books from the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, now directly accessible for all Kaohsiung citizens seeking to familiarize themselves with diverse reading resources and global book trends.

KPL Director Chin-Yang Lee emphasized a library’s role not only as a reading space, but also as a platform for cultural exchange. The establishment of “Windows to the World: The Bologna Collection” demonstrates how global picture book resources are taking root in Taiwan while highlighting the public library's role as a vital bridge between international publishing and local readership. Director Lee hoped the newly established collection would bring local readers to new heights in their reading journey by introducing them to a wider range of global perspectives. 

The conception of “Windows to the World: The Bologna Collection” could be traced back to February 2025, when KPL, Locus Publishing, and the Academy of Transcending the Boundaries of Visual Language collaborated to invite Grazia Gotti, consultant for the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, to give a speech at the Main Library. Therein began a new chapter in KPL’s global engagement. With support from Chairman Rex How and assistance from the Accademia Drosselmeier, Gotti gifted KPL with 199 selected representative picture books from the Bologna Children’s Book Fair, enriching the library’s collection of international reading materials.

Gotti attended the opening ceremony of “Windows to the World: The Bologna Collection” online. KPL Director Chin-Yang Lee, Chairman Rex How of the Academy of Transcending the Boundaries of Visual Language, and Representative Marco Lombardi of the Italian Economic, Commercial and Cultural Promotion Office in Taipei performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of an enthusiastic crowd. The event marked both a new milestone in the city's reading culture and the advancement of global cultural connections.

During Gotti’s first visit, KPL’s unwavering dedication to promoting children’s books left a profound impression. “There was once a magical library,” Gotti had remarked before her departure, “Built on a fantastical island.” This year, Gotti continued to commend KPL for their efforts in organizing and curating the newly-established “Windows to the World” section, as well as its thematic exhibition. During the opening ceremony, Gotti announced that KPL would soon receive an additional amount of 100 books from the Bologna Children’s Book Fair. Gotti hoped that these books, all original works by first-time picture book authors, would continue to brighten the lives of readers in Taiwan.

“Windows to the World: The Bologna Collection” guarantees greater access to international picture books for local readers, ensuring that citizens can read and share a wider range of reading materials. The newly opened section not only enriches KPL’s collection but also presents a new bank of resources for families and creators seeking to deepen their knowledge of the world. Going forward, KPL will continue to foster collaboration with international partners. With picture books as the primary medium, the library is committed to linking Kaohsiung City with the world, opening new pathways of cultural knowledge for its readers.