CityU's Run Run Shaw Library presented an Honorary Membership Card to former University Council member Mr Roderick Woo, thanking him for his generous support at the launching ceremony of the Friends of the Library Scheme, 24 June. Mr Woo is a book lover who has donated over 8,000 books, in addition to numerous magazines and CDs to the Library since the year 2000.

 

The donated books cover a broad range of subjects, from law and Chinese philosophy, to oriental and western literature, as well as autobiography and biography. Among them are works from notable Nobel Prize laureates and Pulitzer Prize winners. Some of the items are pre-1900 publications which are out of print and difficult to obtain. “Books have liberated mankind over the centuries,” Mr Woo said. “The collection I gave to the University consisted of books that I read, and referred to from time to time."

 

“This valuable collection," remarked Professor Eden Yu, Acting Librarian, 

"supplements the Library’s retrospective acquisition project." An exhibition of the donated books, including rare items such as the complete works of Su Shi’s Dongpo Qi Ji in traditional thread-stitched binding (1908-09) and the three-volume Encyclopedia Britannia published in 1771, are on display in the Library Lobby from 24 June to 12 July.

 

Leading the Library to new heights

Professor H K Chang, University President, was impressed by Mr Woo’s passion for books. On behalf of the University,

Professor Chang thanked Mr Woo for his tremendous contributions to CityU, during and since his participation in the University Council. Professor Chang also thanked Secretary to Council Mr John Dockerill, Professor C C Cheng and Professor Yu for leading the Library to new heights in their capacity as Acting Librarians. “Our newly renovated Library is permeated with an air of scholarship. The Library is not only a repository of books, but a centre of learning , where people mingle and exchange ideas."

 

“Friends of the Library” is an initiative to foster contacts with people in the community who share an enthusiasm for books, libraries and reading. The Scheme aims to promote and enrich the Library's resources and facilities for all to enjoy, and to inform the community of the Library’s accomplishments and development. “We hope to enlist a large number of Friends to help develop a reading and learning habit among the youngsters in Hong Kong, and to extend the Library’s cultural resources into the community.” Professor Yu said. The Library also intends to raise funds for the purchase and conservation of significant library collections, to secure book donations by gift or bequest, and to support the University’s academic and research development.

 

“Friends” of the Library can enjoy free access to the Library and make use of various library services and resources. Some categories of membership will be granted borrowing privileges. They will also receive Library e-newsletters and be invited to special programmes and functions organized by the Library. The Scheme welcomes everyone, from secondary school students to renowned scholars, to join in. Details: www.ncm2.xyz/lib/service/fol/.