Accessing the HKU Library is an essential part of the educational facilities the University of Hong Kong provides. The HKU Library, also known as HKUL, advances the university’s teaching and learning, research, and knowledge exchange pursuits through its outstanding resources, people-centered services, and innovative and collaborative approaches. As of 2023, students can access the HKU Library and its resources using various tools and methods.
HKUL offers a wide range of information resources, including a comprehensive collection of books, journals, audiovisual materials, and a rapidly expanding collection of article databases, e-books, e-journals, and e-news. Students can access these resources via FIND@HKUL. Many of these electronic resources are available on the web with authenticated access. HKUL also offers a plugin to search the HKU Libraries Catalogue and other popular databases within the browser and access HKUL-subscribed resources from a publisher’s website.
In this article, readers will learn how to access the HKU Library in 2023. The report will provide readers with the necessary information about HKUL, the various tools and methods to access the library, and how to navigate the library’s resources effectively. Whether you are a new or returning student, this article will serve as a helpful guide to accessing the HKU Library in 2023. Checkout: MyUNSW Login Portal 2023: The Ultimate Guide
Understanding the HKU Library System
HKU Library Structure
The HKU Library System consists of six libraries: the Main Library, the Dental Library, the Education Library, the Fung Ping Shan Library, the Lui Che Woo Law Library, and the Music Library. Each library provides resources and services tailored to the needs of the faculties and students it serves. The Main Library is the largest in the system, providing a wide range of resources and services for all faculties.
The libraries are organized into three service clusters: Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS); Engineering, Science, and Medicine (ESM); and Law and Education (LE). Each cluster is managed by a cluster librarian, who oversees the services and resources provided by the libraries in that cluster.
Library Resources
The HKU Library System offers many resources to support research and learning. These resources include:
- Print and electronic books
- Journals and magazines
- Databases
- Audiovisual materials
- Special Collections
The libraries also provide a range of services to support research and learning, including:
- Research support services, such as reference and consultation services and workshops on research skills
- Learning support services, such as workshops on academic writing and citation management software,
- Interlibrary loan services, which allow users to request materials not held by the HKU Library System
- Document delivery services, which allow users to request articles and book chapters from the HKU Library System’s collections
In addition to these resources and services, the HKU Library System provides access to a range of e-resources, including e-books, e-journals, and databases. These e-resources can be accessed through the HKU Libraries website using the Find@HKUL or Electronic Resources page. Access to these resources is granted upon successful login and authentication.
Overall, the HKU Library System is a comprehensive resource for students and researchers at the University of Hong Kong, providing a wide range of resources and services to support learning, teaching, and research.
Getting Started
If you are a new student at the University of Hong Kong, you must register with the HKU Library to access its resources. The registration process is straightforward and can be completed online. Once registered, you can create an account and use the library’s resources.
Registration Process
To register with the HKU Library, you will need to follow these steps:
- Go to the HKU Library website.
- Click on the “Register” button.
- Fill in the registration form with your details.
- Click on the “Submit” button.
After you have submitted your registration form, you will receive an email with your login details. You must use these details to access the HKU Library website and its resources.
Creating an account
Once registered with the HKU Library, you must create an account to access its resources. To create an account, you will need to follow these steps:
- Go to the HKU Library website.
- Click on the “Login” button.
- Enter your login details.
- Click on the “Create Account” button.
- Fill in the account creation form with your details.
- Click on the “Submit” button.
After you submit your account creation form, you can log in to the HKU Library website and access its resources.
It is important to note that you must use your HKU student card to access the library’s physical resources. You can also access the library’s electronic resources from home using your login details. If you have any questions or need assistance with the registration or account creation process, contact the HKU Library’s help desk for support.
Accessing Online Resources
Accessing online resources at HKU Library is an essential part of academic research. The library offers a vast collection of e-books, journals, and online databases that students and faculty members of the University of Hong Kong can access. This section will briefly guide you in accessing online resources at HKU Library.
E-Books and Journals
The library provides access to a vast collection of e-books and journals, which can be accessed through the library’s website. To access e-books and journals, students and faculty must log in to the library’s website using their library card number and PIN. Once logged in, users can search for e-books and journals by title, author, or subject.
The library’s website provides a simple search and an advanced search option. The simple search allows users to search for e-books and journals by entering keywords in the search bar. The advanced search option will enable users to narrow their search results using author, subject, and publication date filters.
Once users find the e-book or journal they need, they can download or read the content online. Most e-books and periodicals can be downloaded in PDF format, which can be read on any device that supports PDF files.
Online Databases
The library provides access to a wide range of online databases, which can be used to find scholarly articles, research papers, and other academic resources. To access online databases, students and faculty members need to log in to the library’s website using their library card number and PIN.
The library’s website provides a list of online databases, which can be browsed by subject or category. Users can also search for databases by entering keywords in the search bar. Once users find the database they need, they can access it by clicking on the database link.
Most online databases provide a search bar, which can be used to search for articles, papers, and other academic resources. Users can also narrow their search results by using filters such as author, subject, and publication date.
In conclusion, accessing online resources at HKU Library is essential to academic research. The library provides a vast collection of e-books, journals, and online databases that students and faculty members of the University of Hong Kong can access. Following the steps outlined in this guide, users can easily access and use online resources at HKU Library.
Physical access to the library
Library Locations
HKU Libraries have several locations on campus. The Main Library is located at the Centennial Campus, while the Dental Library, Education Library, Law Library, and Medical Library are at their respective faculties. The Main Library is open to all registered HKU students, staff, and alums, while the other libraries are only open to their faculties.
Each library has its opening hours, so it is important to check its website to ensure it is open before visiting. The library’s website also provides information on the library’s location, facilities, and services.
Borrowing Books
To borrow books from HKU Libraries, users must register for a library card at the Enquiries Counter on the 2nd floor of the Main Library New Wing. HKU staff and students can use their HKU ID card as their library card, while other users will be issued a JULAC card.
Registered users can borrow up to 30 items, including books, DVDs, and CDs. Loan periods vary depending on the type of item borrowed, but most books can be borrowed for up to 4 weeks. Users can renew their loans online or in person if another user has yet to request the item.
It is important to note that overdue fines are charged for late returns, so users should ensure they return their items on time to avoid these charges. Users can also request things on loan through the library’s online catalog.
Using Library Tools
Search Catalogue
To search for resources available at HKU Libraries, users can use the “Find@HKUL” search tool. The search tool allows users to search for books, journals, articles, databases, and other resources available at the libraries. Users can search by author, title, subject, keyword, or call number. The search results will show the resources’ availability, location, and call number. Users can filter search results by location, format, language, and other criteria.
Reserve a study room.
HKU Libraries offer a variety of study spaces for students, faculty, and staff. Users can reserve a study room online using the “Book a Room” tool. The tool allows users to search for available study rooms by location, date, time, and capacity. Users can filter search results by equipment, features, and accessibility. Once a study room is selected, users can reserve it by providing their name, email, and purpose of use. Users will receive a confirmation email with the details of their reservation.
HKU Libraries provide various tools and resources to help users access and use the library’s collections and services. By using the library tools effectively, users can save time and effort and make the most of their library experience.
Library Services
The HKU Library provides a wide range of services to support the university community’s teaching, learning, and research needs. In addition to accessing a vast collection of resources, the library offers various services to assist users in their research endeavors.
Research Support
The library provides research support services to help users with their research needs. These services include assistance with literature searching, citation management, and research data management. The library also offers research workshops and training sessions to help users develop their research skills.
Users can also request research consultations with subject specialists for in-depth assistance with their research questions. The library’s Research Support Services team is available to assist users with any research-related questions or concerns.
Inter-Library Loans
The Library’s Inter-Library Loans (ILL) service allows users to request materials unavailable in the HKU Library’s collection. The ILL service enables users to access resources from other libraries in Hong Kong or worldwide.
Users can make ILL requests through the library’s online system, and the library will obtain the requested materials on behalf of the user. The ILL service is available to all HKU staff and students, and the library strives to fulfill requests as quickly as possible.
Overall, the HKU Library’s services are designed to support the research and learning needs of the university community. With a wide range of resources and services available, users can be confident that the library will provide the support they need to succeed.
Troubleshooting
Common Access Issues
Accessing HKUL e-resources can sometimes be challenging, but users may encounter several common access issues. Here are some of the most common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
- Access denied: If you receive an “Access denied” error message, it could be due to several reasons. One of the most common reasons is to log in to the HKUL system. Log in to your HKUL account and try again to resolve this issue. Contact technical support for further assistance if you cannot access the resource.
- Broken link: If you encounter a broken link, refresh the page or clear your browser cache and cookies. If the issue persists, it could be due to a problem with the publisher’s website. Contact technical support for further assistance.
- Pop-up blocked: If your browser has enabled pop-up blockers, it could prevent the resource from opening. Try turning off your pop-up blocker or adding the publisher’s website to your browser’s list of exceptions. Contact technical support for further assistance if this does not resolve the issue.
- VPN connection: If you use a VPN connection, it could prevent you from accessing the resource. Try disconnecting from the VPN and accessing the help again. Contact technical support for further assistance if this does not resolve the issue.
Technical Support
Technical support can assist you if you are experiencing issues accessing HKUL e-resources. Here are some ways to get help:
- HKUL Login & PIN: If you need help logging in to your HKUL account, refer to the HKUL Login & PIN FAQ page for troubleshooting tips.
- MyAccount@HKUL: If you need help with your account or have questions about your loans, refer to the MyAccount@HKUL page for more information.
- HKUL Tech Support: If you are still experiencing issues after trying the above troubleshooting tips, contact HKUL Tech Support for further assistance. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible about the issue you are experiencing, including any error messages you may have received.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I access the HKU Library databases?
To access the HKU Library databases, you must have a valid HKU Portal UID/Library card number and PIN. Once you have these, you can access the library databases through Find@HKUL or the Electronic Resources page on the HKU Libraries website. You can contact the library staff for assistance if you encounter any issues.
What are the opening hours of the HKU Law Library?
The opening hours of the HKU Law Library may vary depending on the time of year. You can check the HKU Libraries website for the current opening hours. You can also contact the library staff for more information.
Where can I find the HKU Library Staff Directory?
You can find the HKU Library Staff Directory on the HKU Libraries website. The directory lists the contact information for all library staff members, including librarians and support staff.
How do I book a study room at the HKU Library?
To book a study room at the HKU Library, you can use the online booking system on the library website. To access the system, you must log in with your HKU Portal UID or library card number and PIN. You can contact the library staff for assistance if you encounter any issues.
What is the process for returning a book to the HKU Library?
To return a book to the HKU Library, you can use the book drop outside the library entrance. You can also return books to the circulation desk during library opening hours. If you have questions about returning readers, contact the library staff for assistance.
How many libraries are available at HKU?
Several libraries are available at HKU, including the Main Library, the Medical Library, the Law Library, and the Education Library. You can find more information about each library on the HKU Libraries website.