Uncovering HKUST’s Story: A Starting Point for Exploration

Library Stories

Collections

On International Archives Day, we celebrate the power of archives to preserve institutional memory and make history accessible. It is also an occasion that brings us back to a familiar question: “Where can I find information about HKUST’s history?”

It’s a question that comes up in many different contexts, such as university offices preparing institutional histories, putting together displays, and students working on assignments and projects. As we celebrate the University’s 35th anniversary this year, there is a growing curiosity across the community about how HKUST has evolved, along with a sense of nostalgia for its earlier days.

HKUST’s story is often told through major milestones, including its founding, achievements and global recognition. But beyond these highlights, the answer to “HKUST’s history” does not lie in just one place nor can be understood from a single perspective.

Rather than simply offering answers, we wanted to create a roadmap to help users navigate the rich body of historical resources available across our own collections and beyond. That’s what inspired us to create this new library guide.

HKUST History Resource Guide

The guide brings together key materials from the University Archives, Library collections, and reliable external resources that we regularly use and consult. It offers a simple starting point to explore HKUST’s story through records, publications, photographs, audio-visual materials, and more.

Looking for a way in? Get started with these questions

Ever wondered how decisions about the campus location and the University’s name were made?
Explore the Reports of the Planning Committee for the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

Curious about what student life was like in HKUST’s earliest days?
Take a look at the first issue of WINGS and hear directly from students as they shared their first-hand experiences, challenges, and hopes.

Feeling uncertain about your path in today’s fast-changing world?
You might find inspiration in founding president Prof. Chia-Wei Woo’s message to the first HKUST graduates in the October 1993 issue of HKUST Newsletter.

Take a look at this guide, let your curiosity lead you, and begin your exploration of HKUST’s past. You may even uncover stories you did not expect to find!

Dorothy Lau
Librarian (Archives & Special Collections)
lbdorothy@ust.hk

Edited By

Dorothy Lau, Librarian (Archives & Special Collections)

Published

09 Jun 2026