Public libraries to revise charges for additional services

31.05.2017

A spokesperson for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) announced today (May 31) that from September 7, the charges for certain additional services including replacement of lost library cards, reservation of library items, self-service photocopying and computer printout services will be revised.

After revision, the new charge for the replacement of a lost adult and junior library card will be $33 and $17 respectively, and the reservation of library items will be $3.3 per item. For self-service photocopying, computer and microform printout, the charge per page will also be revised at different rates, while the first free copy of computer printout will be cancelled. In addition, for non-Hong Kong residents using a temporary library card, the refundable deposit will be $170 for each library item borrowed. For details, please visit www.hkpl.gov.hk/en/about-us/services/fees/revise-fees.html .

“Since the establishment of LCSD in 2000, the fees and charges of the public libraries have remained unchanged, and the charges for most items have been maintained at the level of the 1980s or 1990s. The department has therefore conducted a comprehensive review to align the fees and charges of public libraries in the urban area and the New Territories, as well as to reflect the change of price level over time,” the spokesman said.

“The public continues to enjoy free access to the facilities, services and various extension activities offered by the Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL), so as to meet the community's needs for knowledge and information, self-learning as well as constructive use of leisure time. HKPL also provides additional services on a fee-charging basis in line with 'user pay' principle. LCSD from time to time reviews the fee arrangement for various additional services of HKPL with a view to ensuring the optimal use of library resources and improving the cost-effectiveness and quality of services.” the spokesman added.