Information technology is widely used by the LCSD, and we are constantly looking to enhance the quality of our services for the public and improve our operational efficiency by upgrading our existing IT infrastructure and facilities. In 2017-18, 37 computerisation projects were being implemented at a total expenditure of $34.4 million.

Computerisation of Public Libraries

The Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) has devoted significant resources to enhancing the e-services it provides for the public. For example, in mid-January 2018, it launched an enhancement of its 'My Library' mobile app to allow payment of library fines and charges by Apple Pay, Android Pay or credit card.

In December 2017, the HKPL set up the first self-service library station at Sai Wan Ho. Patrons can use the library station at any time of day or night to check library items in and out, pick up reserved library items, or settle library fines and charges by Octopus. Two more self-service library stations will be set up in 2018-19, one at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the other in Tai Wai.

A mobile-friendly version of the Hong Kong Memory Portal was launched in March 2018. This new interface enables users to easily browse some 25 Hong Kong history, culture and heritage collections on their mobile devices, and access individual items in the collections.

At the same time as it is enhancing its existing IT services, HKPL is also conducting a feasibility study on the redevelopment of the Hong Kong Public Libraries Information Systems. The study is reviewing the current level of computerisation of various library services and operations, and identifying opportunities for the use of new types of information technology to maintain and improve these library services and operations. The study is expected to be completed in 2018.

Sports and Recreation Services Booking System

The department’s Leisure Link System (LLS) enables members of the public to book leisure facilities and enrol in community recreation and sports programmes online, at booking counters or at self-service kiosks. To extend this service, in February 2018 we launched the Mobile Leisure Link e-Services System, which automatically adjusts webpage contents to fit the screen size of a user’s mobile device. Another new function, the online booking of holiday camps, was launched in March 2018. This allows members of the public to book holiday camp places that remain unfilled after the ballot process, and settle payment immediately through the Leisure Link e-Services System. 

In January 2018, the Legislative Council approved funding for a new system for Hong Kong’s public sports and recreation services that will replace the existing LLS and deliver more efficient, convenient and user-friendly booking services. Development of the new system has begun, with the first phase targeted for launch in 2021-22.

Museum Multimedia Information Guide System

In December 2017, a Museum Multimedia Information Guide System was launched that provides museum visitors with museum navigation aids and information about exhibits on display. Under the system, museum visitors can access museum guides in multimedia format on their mobile devices via the mobile app ‘iM Guide’. The new system is currently enhancing 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.

Music Office Integrated System

A Music Office Integrated System was implemented for the Music Office in December 2017. The new system provides e-services to the public that include the ability to make applications and payments for various training programmes and music activities online, as well as a trainee portal for class enquiries. The system is also enhancing the ability of the Music Office to manage classes, trainees, and instructors efficiently, and to manage inventory records of musical instruments.

Projects in Progress

• An Online Patron Registration and e-Resources Platform is being developed for the HKPL. This online platform will simplify the application process for library cards and library accounts, and make it easier to access library e-resources without the need to visit a library. There are plans to set up a number of promotional kiosks designed to promote e-Books to the public. In addition, a new authentication platform will be developed and launched in 2019, which will provide an open and standard means for achieving user authentication with providers of e-books and e-resources.

• The Cultural and Leisure Programmes Searching System is being upgraded for launch in 2018. Apart from providing more functions, the new system will have a mobile-friendly user interface for searching for LCSD leisure and cultural programmes on the LCSD Website.

• An Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Information Management System is being developed for launch in 2018. This will manage information relating to ICH items and disseminate the information to the public through a website, and is expected to facilitate ICH research work and enhance public awareness of ICH.

• A Centralised Museum Collection Management System (MCMS) is being 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. 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.