Hong Kong Central Library: Services, Technology, and Special Collections
Opened on 17 May 2001, the Hong Kong Central Library serves as a premier hub for information, research, and community learning. Designed as an intelligent building with a network flooring system, the facility is built for flexibility, allowing for easy updates to power and telecommunications infrastructure to meet evolving technological needs.
From its comprehensive reference services to its advanced digital infrastructure, the library provides a seamless experience for visitors seeking knowledge in both Chinese and English.
Key Facts
- Opening Date: 17 May 2001.
- Legal Status: Designated legal depository for nine major global organizations.
- Digital Access: Features a three-level Multimedia Information System (MMIS).
- Specialized Content: Houses 11 distinct special collections focused primarily on Hong Kong.
- Connectivity: Reading tables are equipped with individual power points and dataline outlets.
Library Services and Accessibility
The library offers a wide array of services designed for convenience and efficiency. Patrons can utilize self-charging terminals and information kiosks to manage their visits. For those returning materials outside of standard operating hours, a dedicated Bookdrop service is available.
Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC)
The OPAC is the primary gateway for searching the library's extensive Chinese and English collections. Users can search by author, title, subject, and other criteria. While users cannot narrow their initial search to specific categories (such as audio-visual materials only), the system provides real-time status updates on whether an item is on the shelf, on loan, or reserved. If an item is on loan, the expected return date is displayed.
Beyond searching for books, the OPAC allows users to:
- Check personal borrowing records and overdue items.
- Renew or reserve materials.
- View current and upcoming library activities.
The Multimedia Information System (MMIS)
The MMIS represents the library's commitment to integrating advanced information technology. The system utilizes a three-tier structure for Audio-on-Demand (AOD) and Video-on-Demand (VOD) services:
- First Level: High-quality video-audio servers allowing synchronized user access.
- Second Level: A more economical system using servers and jukeboxes for less frequently accessed materials.
- Third Level: A conventional distribution network supporting various formats, including DVD, VCD, LD, CD, and cassette players.
To support this infrastructure, the library has installed approximately 90 Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) terminals and over 400 LAN workstations. Additionally, the library digitizes document imaging materials—such as manuscripts, microfilms, maps, and reports—following copyright clearance, making them available in multimedia databases.
Advantages of the Digital Library
The transition to digital services offers several improvements over traditional library methods:
- Concurrent Access: Multiple users can access the same material simultaneously.
- Remote Access: Information can be searched from any networked workstation.
- Enhanced Research: Users can perform in-depth searches based on style, structure, or color format.
Legal Deposit and Special Collections
The Hong Kong Central Library serves as the official legal depository for nine global organizations, ensuring that their published materials are preserved and accessible to the public. These organizations include:
| Organization Type | Entity Name |
|---|---|
| United Nations Entities | United Nations, UNESCO, World Food Programme, International Labour Organization, International Maritime Organization |
| Financial Institutions | World Bank, Asian Development Bank |
| Trade & Political Bodies | World Trade Organization, European Union |
Specialized Collections
The library houses 11 special collections, most of which focus on the history and culture of Hong Kong. These include the Hong Kong Collection, the Hong Kong Oral History Collection, and the Hong Kong Literature Collection. Other notable archives include the Kotewall Collection, the Hok Hoi Collection, and the Royal Asiatic Society (Hong Kong Branch) Collection.
Visitor Amenities
To support collaborative work, the library offers discussion rooms on several floors, available for rental at a fixed hourly rate (with 30-minute increments thereafter). For refreshments, visitors can visit the Délifrance café, located on the first floor behind the bookshop, which offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if a book is available?
You can use any Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) terminal to see instantly if an item is on the shelf, on loan, or reserved. If it is on loan, the system will provide the due date.
What is the Multimedia Information System (MMIS)?
The MMIS is a high-tech system providing Audio-on-Demand (AOD) and Video-on-Demand (VOD) services across three levels of technology, ranging from high-end servers to conventional media players.
Can I use my own laptop at the library?
Yes. Reading tables are equipped with separate power points and dataline outlets, allowing patrons to connect their portable computers to the library network and the Internet.
What are legal deposit libraries?
A legal deposit library is designated to receive and preserve copies of publications from specific organizations. The Hong Kong Central Library does this for nine global entities, including the UN and the World Bank.
Are there places for group study?
Yes, the library provides discussion rooms on several floors that can be rented on an hourly or 30-minute basis.