INFORMATION  TECHNOLOGY

The LCSD uses information technology widely to enhance the quality of its services for the public and improve its operational efficiency. In 2016-17, 39 computerisation projects were being implemented at a total expenditure of $38.73 million.

The Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) further expanded its network during the year with the opening of Yuen Chau Kok Public Library in March 2017. Apart from providing circulation services, access to multimedia materials and Internet browsing services, the new library is the 30th of our public libraries to have been set up with a Computer and Information Centre. This centre gives users access to common software packages such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite, together with printing and scanning services.

Following the addition of 28 new Self-Charging Terminals (SCTs) in December 2016, HKPL now operates over 240 SCTs. The new and user-friendly SCTs allow patrons to check out library materials by themselves quickly and efficiently, and are further extending the range of self-services offered by HKPL.

A Borrower Registration Record (BRR) System was launched in August 2016. HKPL's borrower registration records, previously stored in traditional forms such as paper and microfilm, have been converted to digital format and new records can now be stored digitally in the BRR system. This is streamlining the process by which branch libraries can retrieve these records in response to enquiries from patrons or other operational needs.

HKPL has also been continuously enhancing the e-services it offers to the public. The HKPL mobile app 'My Library' has had its security features enhanced to better safeguard the personal information of patrons. A new eBook service, HyRead eBook, which primarily offers Chinese books and magazines published in Taiwan, has been made available for patrons. The items offered on HyRead eBook are available for online reading or for downloading to personal computers and mobile devices.

In February 2017, a feasibility study on the redevelopment of the Hong Kong Public Libraries Information Systems started, with its completion targeted for 2018. The aim of the study is to review the current level of computerisation of various library services and operations, and identify opportunities for using new information technologies to sustain and improve our library services and operations.

The Leisure Link System (LLS) enables the public to book leisure facilities and to enrol in recreational and sports activities not only at booking counters, but also through the internet and at self-service kiosks. Two enhancement projects to the system are in progress, one to further streamline the process of making bookings and the other to adopt a responsive web design that will provide users of mobile devices with more user-friendly navigation. The new functions will be launched by 2018. In the light of increasing use of LLS by the public and likely future service needs, we carried out in 2016 a study to review the existing system and explore ways of improving it further. On the basis of the study’s recommendations, we are now planning to develop a new system that will enable more efficient, convenient and user-friendly booking of LCSD sports and recreational facilities and programmes.

The new version of the LCSD website, launched in July 2015, was awarded a Silver Prize in 2016 and a Gold Prize in 2017 in the 'Best .hk Website Awards' under the Government Departments Stream.

• A museum Multimedia Information Guide System that will provide museum visitors with information about exhibits and navigation aids is being developed. This will enhance the experience of visitors to the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Space Museum, as well as those following the Dr Sun Yat-sen Historical Trail. Mobile apps are also being developed for popular mobile devices so that members of the public will be able to access museum guides in multimedia format on their mobile devices. The new system is being launched in phases from mid-2016 to 2017.


• A Music Office Integrated System is being developed to enhance the efficiency of the Music Office's operations. The new system will cover the management of trainees and instructors, and the handling of inventory records. It will also provide e-services (such as services for online applications and online payments) for various training programmes and music activities. The enhanced functions of the new system are being introduced progressively from April 2016 until the end of 2017.


• A Book Dispenser Pilot Project is being implemented. Three self-service library stations will be installed at selected locations in a pilot run, and their feasibility and merits will be evaluated. The first station will be launched in 2017.


• An Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Information Management System is being developed to manage information relating to ICH items and to disseminate such information to the public through a website. The new system, which is expected to facilitate ICH research work and enhance public awareness of ICH, will be launched in 2018.


• A Centralised Museum Collection Management System (MCMS) will be developed to replace the existing collection management systems of the Hong Kong Film Archive, the Hong Kong Museum of History and the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, as well as the library-related functions of the Antiquities and Monuments Office. MCMS will improve our collection management processes, enable faster exchange of information between museum sections, and improve public access to the LCSD’s museum collections. The launch of the new system is planned for 2019.