Paid study rooms thrive in China

Instead of studying at home or in a library for free, an increasing number of people in China are choosing to go to paid self-study rooms in an effort to improve study efficiency.

Equipped with customized tables and chairs, adjustable lighting, air purifiers and quiet computer keyboards, these study rooms are attracting learners with their professional services and setups.

"We aim to create an undisturbed learning space for people who are eager to study but cannot find ideal spaces," said Wang Yi, founder of a 24-hour paid study room.

"Over the past six months since we opened, the market demand is beyond expectation, and we are opening branches to deal with the shortage of lounges," Wang added.

In Shanghai, there are over 80 paid study rooms charging around 2 to 20 yuan ($0.3-3) per hour.

To create a tranquil and friendly learning atmosphere, some rooms have low light to aid in concentration, while some are sunrooms where consumers can enjoy views from large windows. In addition, staff will help remind customers to keep quiet while in the study areas.

Liu Kangcan is the owner of a paid study room that has over 8,000 members. Most of his consumers are white-collar workers aged between 22 and 30 who want to pass postgraduate entrance exams or get certain qualification certificates.