Hong Kong Central Library Causeway Bay - Complete Visitor Guide 2025
The Hong Kong Central Library stands as the flagship of Hong Kong's public library system and serves as the territory's national library. Located at 66 Causeway Road in the heart of Causeway Bay, this 12-storey architectural landmark houses an impressive 2.3 million items and provides world-class library services to residents and visitors alike.
📚 Quick Facts 2025
- Address: 66 Causeway Road, Causeway Bay
- Phone: 852-3150-1234
- Collection: 2.3 million books and multimedia items
- Size: 12 floors, 33,800 sq m
- Opened: May 2001
Opening Hours
The Hong Kong Central Library maintains convenient operating hours throughout the week to accommodate both working professionals and families:
| Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday | 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM |
| Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
What Makes Hong Kong Central Library Special
National Library Status: As Hong Kong's designated national library, the Central Library serves as the official depository for nine international organizations including the United Nations, European Union, World Bank, and Asian Development Bank. This unique status provides researchers and visitors access to extensive international documentation and resources.
Intelligent Building Design: The library represents state-of-the-art technology with its intelligent building systems and network flooring that allows flexible power and telecommunication supply. Every reading table includes individual power points and dataline outlets for laptop users to access the library network and internet.
Collections and Services by Floor
Children's Section
The library's Children's Library offers a dedicated multimedia room and features the innovative "Enjoy Reading, Value Playing" concept through its specialized Toy Library. Regular children's events include storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and the popular Monthly Meeting of Joyful Reading Programme for children and youth.
Reference Collections (Floors 8-9)
The comprehensive reference section spans two floors and includes specialized collections in:
- Business & Finance - Market research, company reports, financial databases
- Hong Kong Studies - Local history, government publications, cultural materials
- Humanities - Literature, philosophy, arts, language resources
- Social Sciences - Education, psychology, sociology, political science
- Science & Technology - Engineering, computer science, medical resources
11 Special Collections
The library houses eleven unique special collections that make it a research destination:
- Hong Kong Collection - Comprehensive local publications and materials
- Hong Kong Oral History Collection - Audio recordings of local history
- Hong Kong Music Collection - Local composers and musical heritage
- Hong Kong Literature Collection - Works by local authors
- Hong Kong Village Life Collection - Traditional rural community documentation
- The Royal Asiatic Society (Hong Kong Branch) Collection
- Open University of Hong Kong Course Materials
- Hok Hoi Collection
- Kotewall Collection
- Hong Kong Exchanges Collection
- Documents Collection Campaign
Modern Facilities and Technology
Self-Service Options: The library provides convenient self-charging terminals for book checkout and returns, plus 24-hour book drop service for after-hours returns. Information kiosks throughout the building help visitors navigate the extensive collections.
Multimedia Access: The Multimedia Information System allows patrons to access CD-ROM databases and internet resources through dedicated LAN/ATM workstations. The building's network infrastructure supports laptop connectivity throughout all reading areas.
Study Spaces: Beyond traditional reading areas, the library offers discussion rooms for group study, music practice rooms for performance preparation, and quiet zones for concentrated research. The multi-purpose activity rooms host regular lectures, seminars, and cultural events.
How to Get There
MTR Access: The library is easily accessible from Causeway Bay MTR Station, just a short walk through the bustling shopping district.
Tram: Take the tram to stop 57E, which provides direct access to the library area.
Bus and Minibus: Hong Kong Island Green Minibus routes 21A, 21M, 39M, 56, 56A, and 56B all serve the Causeway Bay area with stops near the library.
Location Advantage: Situated next to Victoria Park and facing Victoria Harbour, the library offers stunning views and easy access to other Causeway Bay attractions.
2025 Programs and Events
The library maintains an active calendar of educational and cultural programs throughout 2025:
- Subject Talks on "New Era of IT" 2025 - Quarterly sessions in March, June, September, and December
- Thematic Exhibitions - Regular rotating displays from the special collections
- Public Lectures and Seminars - Expert presentations on various academic topics
- Children's Workshops - Creative activities including "Colour Your Pencil Box" sessions
Visitor Tips
💡 Insider Tips for Your Visit:
- Bring Your Laptop: Every table has power and internet connectivity
- Explore the Harbor Views: Upper floors offer spectacular Victoria Harbour vistas
- Plan for Crowds: Weekends and evenings tend to be busier
- Free Wi-Fi: Full internet access throughout the building
- Combine with Victoria Park: Perfect for a half-day cultural and outdoor experience
Whether you're conducting academic research, seeking a quiet study space, or simply curious about Hong Kong's intellectual heritage, the Central Library provides an impressive cultural resource in the heart of one of Asia's most dynamic cities.