BEIJING — The Ministry of Education issued a circular on April 8, collecting outstanding books from authorized publishing houses to establish a recommended book list for libraries in primary and secondary schools nationwide.

Aiming to further improve the quality of books in these libraries, the circular asked for books officially published after January 1, 2014, and gave preference to those printed with eco-friendly inks.

An expert panel will discuss and create a shortlist suitable for primary and secondary school students and teachers from those submitted by publishing houses.

The panel will be made up by teachers of higher education, outstanding teachers of primary and secondary schools, research staff and librarians who take part in setting the national curriculum standards or compiling basic education textbooks.