Beijing authorities are trying to alleviate the pressure of brick-and-mortar bookstores during the coronavirus epidemic outbreak. 

The publicity department issued a notice on how to support bookstores in Beijing on February 26. According to the notice, some book companies will be subsidized with four months of rent.  

Meanwhile, the government is supporting brick-and-mortar bookstores to carry out high-quality cultural activities, especially for those that already have some social influences. There is also tax reduction for stores that are still running amid the outbreak. 

Apart from financial support, cooperation between bookstores and e-commerce platforms is encouraged so booksellers can earn money by selling their books online. 

The notice also supports the transformation and upgrading of brick-and-mortar bookstores in Beijing, for example, by establishing evaluation criteria and system for bookstores. 

Brick-and-mortar bookstores have been an important signature of Beijing, and reflect the cultural heritage of a city. It represents a nostalgic lifestyle in big cities. 

There are 239 brick-and-mortar bookstores in Beijing that have been funded by a brick-and-mortar project last year, including 85 feature bookstores and two influential bookstores. 

Many people's starting date of work has been delayed due to the coronavirus outbreak, which gives them more time to read various books at home. It's an opportunity to create a reading atmosphere in the city.