Archives, Special Collections, and Data Platforms

# Archives, Special Collections, and Data Platforms

# I. University Archives

The HKUST Library established its University Archives in 1996 with the mandate^※ to collect, preserve, manage, and provide access to university records of permanent value, including legally significant documents and materials central to HKUST's history.

According to official Library figures, the holdings currently exceed 1,200 linear feet of archival records and artefacts^※, comprising:

• Internal university administrative records
• Publications and newsletters
• Press releases
• Publicly available video materials
• Historical photographs and audiovisual materials
• Memorabilia and historical treasures

Access to the reading room is by appointment only. Researchers may call 2358 6785 or email the Library Archives and Special Collections (LBARSC) to schedule a visit to the University Archives Reading Room (Ko Pui Shuen Gallery, 1/F). A valid identification document is required for entry.

# II. Special Collections

The University's Special Collections house a wide range of rare primary-source materials^※, with a geographical focus on China and its neighbouring regions. Holdings include:

• Antique maps (including maps of China from the late Qing period to 1949)
• Rare books
• Historical photographs
• Archival documents

The Library describes its collection of antique maps and rare books as among the most significant held by any university in East Asia^※.

# III. Digital Open Platforms

The Library has built several digital platforms to enable online discovery and access of its archival and special collections materials:

# IV. Commercial Databases

The HKUST Library subscribes to several hundred commercial and open-access scholarly databases^※ spanning the natural sciences, engineering, business, social sciences, and humanities, for use by staff and students in research.

# V. Notes

Searches indicate that HKUST currently does not maintain a standalone, publicly accessible thematic research-data repository (such as an open data bank for large-scale physics experiments or a dedicated bioinformatics data centre). Research data are typically made available through the thesis database, appendices in international journals, preprint platforms (such as arXiv), or via links to national and international data infrastructure. Any changes should be verified against the latest announcements from the Library and the Office of the Vice-President for Research and Development.