Noticed a difference here.
Had a sim hit logic 3 before going to China. He hit level 6 late in the second day of his visit by reading in the scholars garden. I didn't bring the level 3 logic book, so decided to re-do the game.
Made another sim, same traits, career, and everything and had him read at base camp. He barely hit level 6 before the vacation was over.
Seems the garden boosts reading speed. Anyone else notice this? Pretty useful in getting a good start for the game. And the academy is close by, helps with restroom and shower stops.