Storytelling from ancient books" opens up a special space where old books are not only displayed but also "speak" about the history, culture and soul of an era.
The collection of documents introduced at the exhibition is a massive document collection, comprehensively reflecting the picture of politics, society, culture, arts, education, exams, as well as national defense and security of a whole historical period.
Books, handwritten copies or imperial decrees are not only of academic value but also vivid evidence of court life and contemporary society.
We can mention the "Silk seal book" sealing Trieu Phi Nguyen Dinh Thi Lan as Thien Phi in Tu Duc year 13 (1860), or the collection "Tu Huong Luc" - a handwriting by King Tu Duc recording the teachings of Empress Dowager Tu Du, reflecting the depth of morality and thought in the royal palace.
In particular, many rare ancient books have been digitized, expanding access for researchers, students, pupils and history lovers.
Digitization not only helps with long-term preservation but also contributes to spreading the value of heritage to a wider community, encouraging reading habits and nurturing reading culture in modern society.
Behind those ancient books is a touching story about people silently preserving and entrusting heritage.
That is Dr. Amandine Dabat - the 5th generation descendant of Ham Nghi - who donated a set of books including two volumes Canh (farming profession) and Chuc (cloth weaving profession), made during the time this king was exiled in Angers.
They are also Ms. Dinh Bao Tran (HCMC) with the book "Quoc Trieu Huong khoa luc" compiled by Cao Xuan Duc in 1893; or Mr. Hoang Viet Trung (Hue City) who donated "Ngu Che Minh Van Co Khi Do" - a work containing the profound teachings of Minh Mang.
These gestures not only enrich the nation's treasure of precious documents but also show a deep love for cultural heritage.
They are the bridge between the past and the present, helping seemingly distant values become closer and more vivid to today's generation.
The exhibition "Stories from ancient books" is also a reminder of the responsibility to preserve and promote heritage.
Each page of ancient books is a piece of history, and each heart of dedication is an action contributing to preserving national memories.
Historical values are cherished and spread, the cultural treasure of our ancestors will continue to be nurtured, becoming an endless source of inspiration for future generations.
