410 Recreation, Sport and the Arts
libraries was launched at the same time. Effectiveness of the library operation, in particular the provision of self-service, is significantly enhanced with the introduction of new technologies.
At the end of 2011, over 960 000 people had registered to use their smart ID cards as library cards. Over 1 700 library computers are available for the public to use the libraries' electronic resources, or access the internet. More than 100 000 ebooks and 13 online databases are available to registered members for home use through the internet.
The HKPL's Multimedia Information System (MMIS) provides a powerful one-stop search facility enabling users to search multimedia archives and look for digitised documents via the internet.
Outreach Programmes and Promotion of Reading and Literary Arts
Outreach programmes form an integral part of the library services. In 2011, the HKPL organised a balanced mix of activities for people of all ages. Regular programmes including storytelling sessions, book exhibitions, and community talks. were held throughout the year.
A total of 20 452 library outreach programmes were conducted in 2011. A variety of reading programmes and reading-related activities were organised to promote reading and sustain an interest in reading, including a 'Summer Reading Month' and a series of meet-the-author sessions.
Creative competitions under the title 'Modern China' were held to celebrate the '4.23 World Book Day' as a tie-in activity for the centennial anniversary of the China 1911 Revolution.
The HKPL continued promoting creative writing and appreciation of literature in 2011. One of its major literary events was the 11th Hong Kong Biennial Awards for Chinese Literature which are widely recognised in Hong Kong's literary circle.
Cultural Exchange
In 2011, Hong Kong's public libraries co-operated and strengthened ties with their counterparts elsewhere, by exchanging library professional knowledge and matters of mutual interest. To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Hong Kong Central Library in 2011, an exhibition of the National Library of China's rare books and special collections was organised jointly with the National Library of China to provide the public with access to Chinese relics and to know more about Chinese civilisation.
The HKPL and the Shenzhen Library continued to organise creative writing competitions to celebrate '4.23 World Book Day' at which Shenzhen's and Hong Kong's winning entries were displayed.
Books Registration Office
The Books Registration Office helps preserve Hong Kong's literary heritage by recording publications in the territory and administering the application of International Standard Book Number (ISBN) and monitors its use under the system.