Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Library Alliance Annual Meeting and Young Scholar Forum 2025 Successfully Concludes in Hong Kong (2025-11-21)
The Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau University Library Alliance (GHMULA) successfully convened its 2025 Annual Meeting and Young Scholar Forum on November 13 and 14 at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. The event brought together over 100 library professionals from across the Greater Bay Area.
Centered on the theme “The Future of Academic Libraries: Tradition and Modernity from an Intercultural Perspective,” the conference fostered discussion on innovative developments and cross-regional collaboration for academic libraries in the Greater Bay Area.
In her opening remarks, Prof. (Helen) Hong Xu, University Librarian of the University of Macau, noted that this year’s event marked the first time the Alliance’s conference was held in Hong Kong. She highlighted the Alliance’s significant achievements over the past several years and announced the upcoming publication of the “Proceedings of the Greater Bay Area University Libraries Alliance Young Scholars Forum,” an initiative designed to further cultivate the research capabilities of young librarians.
Prof. Xu also delivered a keynote speech entitled, “Transforming Academic Libraries for the AI Era: Innovation, Collaboration, and User Engagement.” Her speech explored how librarians can leverage their expertise to actively shape the evolving landscape of academic libraries in the age of artificial intelligence.
The Young Scholars Forum, moderated by UM Functional Head Priscilla Pun, featured twelve presentations from emerging professionals across the region. Presentations addressed topics such as Data Empowerment, Digital Empowerment, Generative AI, and Innovation in Cross-Cultural, and Interdisciplinary Studies, examining the practical integration of AI tools to enhance library services and operations efficiency.
During the GHMULA business meeting, the University of Macau Library confirmed that it will host the Alliance’s next annual meeting in 2026, taking up the mantle to promote continued collaboration and exchange among library professionals in the Greater Bay Area.
Following the conference, the UM Library participants visited the Chinese University of Hong Kong Library and the University Museum, as well as the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Library and the University Gallery.
The successful event has strengthened the foundation for collaboration and innovation among academic libraries in the Greater Bay Area, opening new avenues for cultural exchange and academic research.
The University of Macau Library participants also included Functional Heads Stephen Lei and Wilson Hoi, and Library staff Virginia Wong.
The Chinese University of Hong Kong held an alliance meeting
Prof. Xu Hong delivered a speech and a keynote speech
Ms. Priscilla Pun, Functional Head, hosted the meeting
Visit the Library and Art Museum of the Chinese University of Hong Kong
Visit the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Library and University Gallery