In contrast to the hectic lifestyle of urban China, one bookstore is encouraging people to take the time to read and to invest in themselves.

A survey shows that people today are spending less and less time reading books. In some Chinese cities, like Beijing and Hong Kong, people are too busied by the transit of their daily lives, rushing from home to the office, and dealing with the stress of modern living. Simply sitting down and enjoying a relaxing read has become a luxury in today's world.

Guiyang, a second tier city in southwest China, has also experienced the dramatic impact of modernization and the far reaching effects of globalization. However, it seems that people there haven't yet been overwhelmed by the dawning of the 21st century. They seem to be sheltered naturally from these pressures by the pleasant climate and surrounding scenery.