New Library Service Arrangements

Starting July 2025, the Library will implement new service arrangements to optimise the allocation and utilisation of manpower and resources for better service delivery to students and staff.

1. Changes in Counter Hours & Services
2. Expansion of Self-service Facilities
3. Integration of AI and Advanced Technologies into Library Services

1. Changes in Counter Hours & Services

To ensure the efficient utilisation of our manpower and resources, the Library will maintain its opening hours while adjusting its service counter hours with effect from July 2025 as follows:

The Technical Support Desk Service at 4/F i-Space and the Library WhatsApp Enquiry Service will be available during office hours, from 09:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, excluding public holidays. For details, please visit Library webpages on i-Space Facilities and WhatsApp a Librarian.

2. Expansion of Self-service Facilities

The Library is continually introducing additional self-service facilities to better serve its users. In late June 2025, the Podium Service Counter will undergo minor modifications to enhance its offerings, including:

• A Virtual Assistant for user enquiry services
• Self-service JULAC Library Card collection station(s)
• A new book drop near self-check station designated for returning HKALL & Interlibrary Loan (ILL) books

Please await further updates regarding these new self-service facilities, which are slated for launch between July and September 2025. Library users will be able to utilise these facilities during opening hours, providing greater flexibility and convenience.

3. Integration of AI and Advanced Technologies into Library Services

To enhance user experience, the Library has proactively integrated AI and emerging technologies into its services, providing new tools and resources for supporting academic activities and offering a more efficient experience for students and staff while using Library services. Explore the new tools and services now!

• PolyU Library Mobile App: Provides quick and easy access to library services and facilities, including real-time availability and reservations for library facilities, iBooking records, and personal library records.
  

• Library AI Chatbot – LiBot: Offers instant responses to queries about library services based on Library website content and guides, with source links for verification. Click the mascot on the right side of our Library website to start chatting with LiBot.

• AI OneSearch Lite – New Discovery Tool: Revolutionises academic research by providing answers from five relevant scholarly sources through a chatbot-like interface and offering suggestions for further exploration of research topics.

• Libguide – Harnessing GenAI in Your Academic Journey: Provides insights into the effective and ethical use of AI in academic work, guiding you on how to leverage on various AI tools, including Scite, an AI-powered platform for discovering and evaluating scientific articles, while maintaining academic integrity.
  

• Rehearse with Coach : Facilitates the use of Microsoft PowerPoint’s AI-powered “Rehearse with Coach” feature in the One Button Studios, offering feedback on presentation skill to assist students in improving their body language, voice modulation, and content organisation.

• Book Transport Robot: Enhances the library experience by streamlining the book return process through efficient robotic transportation of books.

Stay tuned for more updates and innovations! While these advancements are designed to improve your experience, our Library staff are always ready to assist you during counter service hours. For more information, please refer to Library FAQs, engage with LiBot, or contact us.