Special Collections at HKUST Library
During the early years of the University, extra funds were made available to the Library from time to time, providing an opportunity to develop special collections. We eventually selected Antique Maps of China and the History of Science and Technology as the two focus areas for our special collections. This is because they were, and still are, unique in this region and, therefore, fill a gap in scholarship.
The History of Science and Technology collection, with emphases on scientific discoveries and inventions in Europe during the past five hundred years, consists of about 530 volumes of rare books and over 1200 volumes of reference titles. Although this collection is modest in size, it offers an illuminating glimpse of the awesome achievements of the human intellect.
The Antique Maps of China collection includes more than 230 maps, charts, pictures, books and atlases. It represents almost all samples of China maps produced by European cartographers from the 16th to 19th centuries. This cartographic archive vividly records the long history of cross-cultural exchanges between China and the West.
These two collections have been stored on compact shelvings with the University Archives until May 2002 when a permanent home befitting the intrinsic value and beauty of these items was completed. The new Special Collections Room furnished with Ming-style bookcases and cabinets will provide appropriate physical and environmental security for these works. Scholars will also have adequate space to view and use the collections. To celebrate the opening of the Special Collections Room, the Library mounted an exhibition on “China in Maps” and organized a Colloquium on “Celebrating Special Collections – Scholarship and Beauty”.
A copy of China Regnum (1593) and a set of postcards made from pictures in our Antique Maps of China collection, have been issued as mementos of this occasion.
Min-min Chang
University Librarian &
Curator of Special Collections