Abstract:

In 2022, the Chinese Studies Center of the National Library of China conducted researchon its collection of overseas publications on Shanghai studies written in minor European languages. Thestudy involved a statistical analysis based on chronology, language, and classification, which broadenedthe knowledge of overseas Shanghai studies, and triggered reflections on the historical value, theoreticalfoundation, supportive role, and reference significance of such studies. The article proposes to carry outthematic literature research in a wider range, fully leveraging the historical value of overseas Chinesestudies, and advocating the establishment of collaborative and incentive mechanisms for such research.By examining the perspectives of overseas scholars, this investigation clarifies the relationship betweenShanghai’s development and its history, culture, social progress, and national strategy. It enriches theunderstanding of promoting the inheritance and development of Chinese culture, and facilitating Sinoforeignexchanges and cooperation. Also, it has demonstrated the indispensability of collection building,the importance of fundamental service, and the social responsibility of the National Library of China.