Perhaps you’re seeking a treasure trove of knowledge? Look no further than the Kowloon Public Library. It stands as a beacon of learning in Hong Kong. This library wasn’t always known by its current name. Once, it was called the Kowloon Central Library. That was before the Hong Kong Central Library opened.
The Kowloon Public Library is managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. This department oversees many cultural and recreational activities in Hong Kong. The library spans 12 stories. It offers about 43000 square feet of floor space. It is a sizable space dedicated to books and learning.
Let’s step back in time. The first public library in Kowloon opened in 1965. It was the Waterloo Road Library. The Kowloon Central Library replaced it. The first phase opened on November 16, 1984. This marked the first purpose-built library building in Hong Kong. Lady Youde inaugurated the second phase on September 9, 1985. She was the wife of the Governor, Sir Edward Youde. You can find a plaque commemorating this event at the entrance.
Pau Shiu-hung played a key role in designing the building. He was an architect with the Architectural Office. This office was then part of the Public Works Services. In 2000, it officially became the Kowloon Public Library. This change occurred before the Hong Kong Central Library’s opening.
Major renovations took place starting in May 2005. The facilities were updated. The Computer and Information Centre was expanded. In January 2007, the exterior got a fresh look. The dark brown walls were repainted white and green.
The Kowloon Public Library provides many facilities. Students flock to the study room on the third floor. Many schools are nearby. These include Pui Ching Middle School, New Method College and Wah Yan College. During exams from March to May, admission cards are needed. The rest of the year, it is open to everyone.
The Education Resource Centre is on the ninth floor. It opened on May 4, 2007. This center offers continuous learning opportunities. It serves both the public and teaching professionals. It holds over 40000 resources. These cover educational theory, psychology, and more. You’ll find materials on bilingual education. Resources also include local and foreign serials.
Each floor of the Kowloon Public Library offers something unique. The Reference Library is located on the tenth floor. The Computer and Information Centre is on the eighth floor. The Adult Library is split between the sixth and seventh floors. Chinese books are on the sixth floor. English books are on the seventh floor. Newspapers and periodicals are on the fifth floor. The Children’s Library is on the fourth floor. Library offices and study rooms are on the third floor. The circulation desk is on the second floor.
The Kowloon Public Library is more than just a building. It’s a community hub. It’s a place for learning, discovery, and growth. Stop by and see what awaits you.