Introduction to collection development

The collection development of the Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) aims to develop a library stock that meets the community's needs for information and research, to support lifelong learning, continuous education and profitable use of leisure time, and to promote local literary arts. It is guided by the beliefs proclaimed in the UNESCO Public Library Manifesto and helps achieve the mission of HKPL as follows :-

1. As an information centre where information and the latest development on all subject disciplines are freely and readily available to the public;
2. As a tool in support of self-education and continuing education through resource-based learning;
3. As a community cultural centre where a balanced range of resource-based library activities are organized to provide information, recreation and relaxation for people of all age groups;
4. As a centre for the promotion of reading, literary arts and literary research in Hong Kong to cultivate public interest in creative writing and literary research, to encourage and promote literary writing, preserve Hong Kong literature, and to promote cultural exchange;
5. As a source of enjoyment for the profitable use of leisure where library materials may be borrowed for home reading; and
6. As a resource for the enrichment of everyday living where members of the public may learn about current affairs, hobbies, and leisure pursuits.