About
University Archives
The University Archives preserves archival records, publications, photographs, audio-visual materials, memorabilia, and historical treasures that capture the history of the University and memories of the HKUST community.
Special Collections
The Library’s Special Collections preserves a wide range of primary source materials, including antique maps, rare books, photographs, and archival materials, with a focus on China and its nearby regions. You are welcome to explore our digital collections at the Rare & Special e-Zone.
Visit Us
Reading Room
Records and materials of the University Archives and Special Collections are provided for consultation at the Reading Room of the University Archives and Special Collections.
The Reading Room generally operates during the University office hours. Before your visit, please schedule an appointment via email at lbarsc@ust.hk.
To protect the physical and intellectual integrity of valuable records and materials in the University Archives and Special Collections (UASC), please follow all instructions from library staff and observe the following rules when using the Reading Room:
- Users must present valid identification (HKUST ID, HKID or travel document) if requested for verification purposes.
- Users must fill out a request form for the materials they want and may be asked to describe their research project. Requested materials will be retrieved from and returned to the shelves by UASC staff.
- Users may request up to four items at a time.
- Coats, bags, briefcases, laptop cases, and other personal belongings that are not required for reference (excluding valuables such as wallets and mobile phones) must be stored outside the reading area.
- Eating and drinking are strictly prohibited in the Reading Room.
- Users should remain quiet and self-disciplined in the Reading Room. No phone calls should be made or received.
- Only pencils, writing pads, tablets, and laptops are allowed for note taking. Pens and correction pens are prohibited.
- All records and materials must be handled with great care to ensure their preservation:
- Keep hands clean, dry, and free of lotions when handling materials. Gloves must be worn when handling photographs, slides, negatives, or artifacts.
- Use specialized tools such as book pillows to minimize damage to the materials during use.
- Turn pages slowly and carefully.
- Do not mark, fold, write, or trace on the materials.
- Do not lean on the materials or use them as writing support.
- Do not rest objects on the face or surface of materials.
- Preserve the existing order of all unbound materials. Items in folders should be examined one at a time.
- Users must not re-arrange or remove items from their protective sleeves or folders.
- Users may use the plain paper strips provided in the Reading Room as place markers if needed. Paper clips, rubber bands, post-it notes, or any objects which may cause damage to materials should not be used.
- No digital photography with personal devices is permitted without prior approval. No flash photography is allowed.
- Users must inform UASC staff and return all records and materials before leaving the Reading Room.
KPS Gallery
Located on the first floor of the Library, the Special Collections Gallery showcases treasured items of the University Archives and Special Collections. Equipped with movable display panels, flexible furniture, PC booth, LED display and projectors, this gallery space also facilitates talks and exchange activities on the study and research of topics related to our collections.
It is named the Hong Kong Chiu Chow Chamber of Commerce Ko Pui Shuen Gallery (香港潮州商會高佩璇展閱廳) to acknowledge the generous donation by Dr. Ko Pui Shuen.
