Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging role of "book curators" in hotels, emphasizing the importance of carefully selected books in enhancing the guest experience and reflecting the hotel's identity [2][15][39]. Group 1: The Role of Book Curators - Book curators are professionals who select and display books in various spaces, including hotels, to create a unique reading experience for guests [16][20]. - The concept of book curators originated in Japan and has gained attention in China, with professionals like Chu Haifei providing curation services for hotels and other commercial spaces [18][19]. - The selection process involves understanding the space's atmosphere, the target audience, and cultural goals, making it a comprehensive art form [21][23]. Group 2: Importance of Authenticity - Many hotels still use decorative fake books, which do not provide a genuine reading experience, highlighting a disconnect between the intended ambiance and actual guest engagement [10][12][14]. - The discussion around whether hotels should use real books has gained traction, with arguments for authenticity emphasizing the emotional connection books can foster between guests and the space [14][39]. - Real books can serve as a medium that connects people and spaces, enhancing the overall atmosphere and guest experience [23][24]. Group 3: Case Studies of Successful Implementation - The Muji Hotel in Beijing collaborated with a professional book curator to select books that resonate with the hotel's brand ethos, focusing on Japanese aesthetics and urban culture [33]. - The Cotton Flower Hotel invited a book curator to redefine its public space, ensuring that the selected books align with the hotel's architectural language and design [34]. - The Atour Hotel's "Bamboo Residence" initiative involves a curated book list tailored to the needs of new middle-class and business travelers, integrating reading with community engagement [36]. Group 4: Evolving Hotel Spaces - Hotels are transitioning from being mere transitional spaces to content-rich environments that offer diverse experiences through books, art, and music [39][40]. - The integration of books into hotel design reflects a broader trend of hotels seeking to express local culture and history, enhancing their role as cultural windows [40][41]. - The shift towards content-driven hotel experiences indicates a growing demand for professionalism and depth in the services offered, moving beyond superficial engagement [48][49].