IT is, says architect Li Xiang, a paradise for bookworms – but that may be the understatement of the year. Because this library is like no other, akin to stepping into a mind-boggling M.C. Escher drawing.

Dujiangyan Zhongshuge, located in China’s Chengdu, is a cathedral in praise of reading. Step inside and prepare to pinch yourself as your eyes almost certainly deceive you.

And no, it’s not an AI invention – this is real-life magic.

Designed by Shanghai architecture gurus X+Living, it’s actually a two-storey building, its real dimensions distorted by mirrored-ceilings, gleaming black-tiled floors and artwork.

“The mirror ceiling is the signature of Zhongshuge bookstore,” says Li Xiang. “It extends the space by reflection. Each space was carefully considered to add to the overall experience.”

Bookcases seem to tower impossibly high into the air but, again, seeing is not necessarily believing. The lower shelves house 80,000 books, but the higher stretches are make-believe.

The books up there are actually artwork, printed on film used to cover the surfaces. It would be physically impossible for readers and staff alike to reach them.

There’s a café, a children’s area decorated with pandas and dotted with comfortable cushions on which to sit. There’s more traditional seating, a number of desks and meeting spaces, too.

But it’s the overall effect that takes your breath away. If you’ve seen a more spectacular library on your travels, let me know.

Images: Shao Feng / X+Living