Premier Li Keqiang visited a bookstore in Hangzhou's Grand Canal area, and stressed the importance of books for society in general. Li's remarks, which were greeted with enthusiasm, were delivered during a visit to Zhejiang province.

Jiang Aijun, owner of Xiaofeng Bookstore, said the premier's visit and encouragement were greatly appreciated.

"Facing competition from online books, bookstores are struggling. The premier's words gave me confidence in the future of the bookstore," he said.

Jiang said that the premier told them that books are important cultural symbols and that they will always have a market.

"He was very sincere when he spoke to us about the bookstore and I believe the nation will launch more supportive policies for bookstores like ours," he said.

To save bookstores, the Finance Ministry and the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television issued a number of policies this year, including an exemption from value-added tax.

In addition, 56 bookstores in 12 cities, including Xiaofeng Bookstore, received funding of 90 million yuan ($15 million).

"We are over the most difficult time," Jiang said.