The National Library of China in Beijing has kicked off commemorative events honoring the 100th anniversary of the birth of its former director Ren Jiyu (1916-2009).

Ren, a renowned philosopher, librarian and scholar, was among the founders of religion studies in New China. He organized compilation of a series of key books, which established a foundation of scholarly work including those on Buddhist classics, Dunhuang manuscripts and Confucianism.

A seminar reviewing Ren's achievements and theories was held on April 14, and a commemoration exhibition which unveils his lifetime through pictures, books, manuscripts, and videos also opened in the National Museum of Classic Books on that day and will run for one month.

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