A book containing the stories of couriers who braved the novel coronavirus outbreak was launched at the ongoing Shanghai Book Fair on Thursday.

Launched by YTO Express and Shanghai People's Publishing House, the book features more than 80 stories and over 120 pictures that vividly depict the lives of these professionals who contributed to the fight against the outbreak.

"Express shipping has become an integral part of our daily life, and it has been particularly valuable during COVID-19. Shanghai People's Publishing House decided to collaborate with YTO Express to publish this book as our way of showing respect to every person involved in this business," said He Yuanlong, deputy Party secretary with the publishing house.

"This book is a tribute to the efforts of these couriers. Because of their courage and contribution, the country's economic and social activities have been well-maintained," said Yu Hongwei, deputy head of the Shanghai Municipal Postal Administration.

China's express delivery business grew significantly this year. More than 40 billion packages were delivered between January and July, surpassing the total volume of 2017, according to data published by the State Post Bureau of China.

"There were so many touching stories amid the battle against COVID-19. We think it is meaningful to record and publish them," said Ye Feng, vice-president of YTO Express.

According to Ye, more than 1,284 tons of pandemic prevention resources were shipped via 200 chartered flights flown by YTO Airlines' cargo planes this year.