Company makes push into library

Some students are upset over Apple plans to move into the library at Peking University, says the People's Daily. An "Apple Experience Center" is opening on the third floor of the library next week; the center's 40 square meters are surrounded by glass walls, and occupy a former study space. Although Apple notebooks, iPhone cases and headphones have reportedly been spotted in the space, the library insists that no Apple products will be sold. Instead the goal is claimed to be providing better access to materials through digital technology.

The main objection is said to be the crass commercialism involved. "It's totally against the spirit and environment of the library," one student complains. "Apple should have discounts or give-back activities if they want self-promotion, other than introducing this commercial thing into a sacred place like this." A professor, Xia Xueluan, argues that while it's good to have the technological help, the center should be "somewhere independent that does not disturb others."

A key partner for the AEC is an authorized Apple reseller, the Shanghai Liangyu Technology Development Company, which states that students will be able to buy discounted Apple gear, contradicting the library's position. Apple already has many other centers scattered throughout Chinese universities, including nine in Beijing alone.

by MacNN Staff