Datalense: Transforming Library Experiences with Data Visualization

Interactive digital twin system reimagines reading at Beijing City Library

With the rapid shift towards mobile content and short-form media, traditional libraries face the challenge of engaging modern audiences. Datalense addresses this by installing a monumental 18-meter-wide interactive screen at the entrance of Beijing City Library. This innovative system leverages data visualization to attract visitors, offering a dynamic and engaging introduction to the library’s resources and environment.

Inspired by the nostalgia of reading in natural settings, Datalense’s user interface incorporates seasonal themes and landscape motifs. Data panels mimic valleys, while icons and charts resemble plants, creating a harmonious blend of digital information and organic aesthetics. The color palette shifts with the seasons, providing a visually engaging and ever-changing backdrop for users exploring the library’s offerings.

The system’s functionality extends beyond visual appeal. Users interact with biomimetic 3D models of the library, accessing real-time information on exhibitions, book collections, air quality, and visitor density. The integration of radar sensors and multi-touch feedback allows for both remote and close-range interactions, supporting multiple users and delivering instant, animated responses to touch gestures. During idle periods, the screen showcases dynamic data scenes, further enhancing the immersive experience.

Datalense is powered by advanced technologies, including Alibaba Cloud’s DataV, the proprietary CityV engine, and AIGC for real-time visual effects. The design team utilized tools such as Unreal Engine, C4D, and 3DMax to develop intricate UI panels and 3D simulations. This modular, digital twin system not only visualizes complex data but also adapts to changing conditions, reflecting different times of day, seasons, and cultural festivals.

Launched in January 2024, Datalense represents a significant step in the digital transformation of libraries. By making static data dynamic and spatial, it enables visitors to connect with information in new ways, fostering deeper engagement and understanding. The system’s success is underscored by its recognition with the Platinum A' Design Award in 2025, highlighting its contribution to advancing the boundaries of art, technology, and user experience in public spaces.

Datalense stands as a testament to the power of design-driven innovation in cultural institutions. By seamlessly integrating natural aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, it not only revitalizes the image of libraries but also sets a new standard for interactive public environments, encouraging a renewed appreciation for reading and knowledge sharing.