Macao's annual book carnival features reading amid AI development

MACAO, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The Macao Book Carnival 2026 opened on Friday at the Macao Polytechnic University, bringing together Chinese, English, and Portuguese publications and nearly 40 events.

The book fair, in its 29th edition, was hosted by the Macao Association of Literacy Promotion and co-organized by the Macao Polytechnic University, with the theme of "AI for logic, books for life."

Among the visitors was Macao resident Icy Chong, who said she attends the book carnival every year, following local publications closely, browsing newly released titles, and buying children's books for her daughter.

Chong believes that reading is a skill that needs to be cultivated. "Nowadays, people spend more time on their phones, but slow, focused reading is a way to exercise the brain, so it remains essential," she added.

In her opening remarks, Chan Im Wa, head of the Macao Association of Literacy Promotion, introduced that the group's volunteers have organized book donations in the Chinese mainland, with follow-up visits planned later this year. She expressed hope that more people would join.

The event will be open to the public till July 19.