The Joint University Librarians Advisory Committee (JULAC), comprising the libraries of the eight tertiary education institutions funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC) of the Hong Kong SAR Government, has a rich history of communication, coordination, and collaboration on library information resources and services since 1967.
The 2024 JULAC Libraries Forum, themed “Innovating in the Digital Era” was successfully held at the Lecture Theatre GH201 on Friday, 6 December 2024. Hosted by The PolyU Library and supported by the JULAC Organising Committee, the forum was a dynamic and engaging event for 210 library professionals from the eight member universities. This gathering provided an invaluable platform for sharing insights, discussing the latest trends, and exploring new opportunities in the rapidly evolving fields of library and information science, as well as teaching, learning and research.
- Opening Remarks: Prof. Kwok-yin Wong, Vice President (Education) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, delivered the opening remarks for the forum.
|
 |
- Overview of JULAC Activities: Dr Shirley Wong, JULAC Chair, provided an insightful overview of JULAC’s activities, highlighting the ongoing efforts and achievements in fostering collaboration among member libraries.
|
 |
- Keynote Address: Dr Benjamin Luke Moorhouse from Hong Kong Baptist University delivered a thought-provoking keynote address on the impact of Generative AI on academic publishing and knowledge production, offering a glimpse into the future of digital scholarship
|
 |
- Panel Discussion by JULAC Directors: During the forum, a notable panel discussion was held featuring the JULAC Directors, with Ms Bethany Wilkes, Deputy University Librarian from Hong Kong Baptist University as the facilitator. The JULAC Directors addressed questions revolving around the forum’s theme, raised by participants both via prior submission and onsite. This session offered valuable insights and fostered a deeper understanding of how libraries can continue to innovate and thrive in a digital era.
|
 |
- Presentations from Member Libraries & JULAC Sub-Committees: Representatives from JULAC libraries shared presentations showcasing the latest projects, initiatives, advancements in library services and information management in the digital age. The JULAC Sub-Committees, including Consortiall and Learning Strategies Committee presented on the Open Access transformative agreements, and the collaborative approach to evaluating AI-powered research tools.
|
 |
- Guided Library Tours: Led by Faculty Librarians, six guided library tours were conducted, allowing forum participants to explore the innovative changes and enhanced facilities at the PolyU Library, designed to support academic success and foster a vibrant learning environment.
|
 |
