Draft:Kan Lai Bing

• Comment: In accordance with Wikipedia's Conflict of interest policy, I disclose that I have a conflict of interest regarding the subject of this article. Kuhkul (talk) 06:32, 25 June 2025 (UTC)

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Kan Lai Bing

Dr. Kan Lai Bing ( Chinese: 簡麗冰, 1933 - 5 September 2024 ) stands as a monumental figure in the landscape of librarianship in Hong Kong, whose distinguished career spanned over six decades. Her influence was deeply felt across the academic community, particularly through her leadership as University Librarian at both The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). Her continuous dedication to developing libraries and advancing the Library and Information Science (LIS) profession has left an indelible mark on the region.

The simultaneous leadership Dr. Kan provided to both of Hong Kong's premier universities, HKU and CUHK, during critical phases of their development, signifies an unparalleled influence on the entire academic library landscape of the region. This is not merely a record of employment but rather an indication of her status as a foundational architect of modern Hong Kong librarianship. Her ability to lead both institutions suggests a high level of trust, expertise, and a unifying vision for library development across the territory. This positioning allowed her to shape standards, practices, and inter-university collaboration, establishing her as a central figure in the professionalization and modernization of the entire LIS field in Hong Kong.

Early Life and Educational Background

Dr. Kan Lai Bing embarked on an academic journey marked by a diverse and rigorous educational foundation.

She studed at Belilios Public School, where she excelled academically and developed a strong foundation for her future endeavors.

She commenced her university studies at The University of Hong Kong (HKU), graduating in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree, specializing in Botany, Zoology, Chemistry, and Physics.¹ This early exposure to the natural sciences likely instilled in her a strong appreciation for systematic organization, classification, and research methodology.

Following her undergraduate studies, Dr. Kan pursued postgraduate education in the United States. She attended the University of California , Berkeley as a Carnegie Scholar, where she earned two master's degrees in 1959: a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Zoology and a Master of Library Science (M.L.S.) in Library Science. This dual specialization in a scientific discipline and library science is particularly noteworthy. Upon her return to Hong Kong, she further deepened her academic credentials by earning a Ph.D. in Chinese studies from HKU in 1968.

Dr. Kan's multidisciplinary educational background, encompassing natural sciences, library science, and Chinese studies, provided her with a unique and comprehensive perspective. This breadth of knowledge likely informed her holistic approach to library development, enabling her to proficiently manage diverse academic collections and cater to varied research needs. Her scientific training contributed to precision and systematic organization, her library science expertise focused on information access, and her Chinese studies background provided crucial cultural context and an understanding of specific collection requirements. This highly interdisciplinary intellectual foundation was instrumental in her ability to advocate for and develop comprehensive library services that supported a wide range of academic disciplines, from scientific research to the humanities, a crucial attribute for a university librarian.

Career Trajectory and Leadership Roles

Dr. Kan Lai Bing's career in academic libraries was extensive and highly influential, spanning both of Hong Kong's most prestigious universities. She began her professional journey at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) Libraries in 1959.⁴ During her initial tenure at HKU, she progressed through various roles, serving first as an Assistant Librarian and then as a Sub-Librarian from 1959 to 1970.⁶ Her capabilities quickly led to her appointment as Deputy Librarian, a position she held from 1970 to 1972.⁴

In December 1972, Dr. Kan took on a new challenge, accepting the position of University Librarian and Director of the Library System at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK).¹ This was a pivotal period for CUHK Library, and she led the critical preparations for the library's relocation and the grand opening of its new University Library building.³ The

University Bulletin in January 1973 featured Dr. Kan and the new facility , noting its impressive design with "wide stretches of space, empty shelving areas, and of attractive carrels and faculty studies," with an ultimate capacity for 400,000 volumes. Under her visionary leadership, the CUHK Library's collection expanded dramatically during her tenure, growing from the projected 400,000 volumes to an impressive 2.8 million volumes by the time of the article's publication.

After eleven years of service at CUHK, Dr. Kan returned to HKU in 1983, assuming the role of University Librarian.¹ Her 14-year tenure at HKU was marked by significant transformations, as she reshaped the library into a dynamic learning center supporting teaching, research, and continuing education.¹ A testament to her administrative acumen and advocacy, she also played a crucial role in fundraising, attracting substantial sums for the development of the University Libraries.⁴

Even after her formal retirement from the University Librarian position in mid-1999, Dr. Kan's commitment to the library community remained unwavering. She continued to serve as Senior Advisor of the HKU Libraries until July 2024, demonstrating enduring influence and dedication.¹ Her advisory roles extended beyond HKU; in 2001, she was appointed Senior Consultant by HKU SPACE, where she was instrumental in planning and leading Library and Information Science (LIS) programs until August 2008, later serving as Senior Advisor.¹ Furthermore, from 2008 to 2010, she contributed her expertise to the Library Advisory Committee under the Home Affairs Bureau of the HKSAR Government, providing strategic guidance for the development of public libraries.¹

The progression of Dr. Kan's career, marked by leadership transitions between HKU and CUHK, and subsequently into advisory roles for public libraries and LIS education, illustrates a strategic and enduring commitment to shaping the entire library ecosystem in Hong Kong. Her return to HKU after successfully leading CUHK highlights a unique expertise valued by both premier institutions. Her long engagement in post-retirement advisory capacities underscores a deep-seated dedication to systemic improvement within the field, transcending the boundaries of direct institutional management. This career path demonstrates a rare ability to impact policy and practice at institutional, educational, and governmental levels, firmly establishing her as a true architect of librarianship in Hong Kong.

Year (Start-End)	Position	Institution/Organization
1959-1970	Assistant Librarian, then Sub-Librarian	The University of Hong Kong (HKU) Libraries
1970-1972	Deputy Librarian	The University of Hong Kong (HKU) Libraries
1972-1983	University Librarian and Director of the Library System	The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Library
1983-1999	University Librarian	The University of Hong Kong (HKU) Libraries
1999-July 2024	Senior Advisor	The University of Hong Kong (HKU) Libraries
2001-August 2008	Senior Consultant, planning and leading LIS programs	HKU SPACE
2008-2010	Member, Library Advisory Committee	Home Affairs Bureau, HKSAR Government

Table 1: Dr. Kan Lai Bing's Professional Timeline

Contributions to Library Science and Modernization

Dr. Kan Lai Bing's tenure at both CUHK and HKU was characterized by significant contributions to the modernization and expansion of library services, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to the evolving needs of academic institutions.

At CUHK, she was instrumental in the physical development of the library. She led the preparations for and oversaw the opening of the new University Library building in December 1972.³ This facility was designed with substantial room for growth, initially projected to house 400,000 volumes.³ Under her leadership, the library's collection dramatically expanded to 2.8 million volumes, representing a nearly seven-fold increase in holdings and underscoring her commitment to robust resource development.³

Upon her return to HKU, Dr. Kan continued her transformative work. She initiated "monumental changes" to the University Library system, reshaping it into a dynamic learning hub for teaching, research, and continuing education.¹ A key aspect of her modernization efforts at HKU was the adoption of advanced technology. She oversaw the introduction of a "sophisticated turnkey system" designed to manage a wide array of library functions, marking a significant step towards library automation.⁶ Furthermore, she championed continuous improvements, including the installation of a major CD network to provide access to extensive CD databases, an early embrace of digital information resources.⁶ In 1991, she established a new Audio-Visual Department, offering access to media products that were considered cutting-edge at the time.⁶

Beyond technological and infrastructural advancements, Dr. Kan demonstrated exceptional skill in securing sustainable financial support for libraries. She successfully advocated for a crucial policy change at HKU, convincing the University to allocate library funding as a fixed percentage of the total University budget. Beginning with the 1992-93 financial year, the University agreed to a library budget equivalent to 6% of its Block Grant.⁶ This achievement, described as a "monumental feat," was vital for ensuring sustained financial backing for library growth and operations. Her efforts also attracted sizable sums for the overall development of the University Libraries at HKU.⁴

Dr. Kan's leadership was consistently characterized by a forward-thinking approach to library development. This encompassed not only physical expansion and collection growth but also the proactive adoption of emerging technologies—from early automation systems to CD-ROM networks and advanced audiovisual facilities—and securing sustainable funding models. This comprehensive vision for modernizing library services positioned HKU and CUHK at the forefront of academic library development in the region, setting a benchmark for other institutions. Her success in securing a fixed percentage of the university budget is particularly significant, as it reflects a deep understanding of library economics and powerful advocacy for its integral role in academic success, establishing a sustainable model for future growth and innovation.

Impact on Library Education and Professional Development

Dr. Kan Lai Bing's influence extended profoundly into the realm of library education and professional development, fundamentally shaping the Library and Information Science (LIS) profession in Hong Kong. Her initiatives laid the groundwork for structured training and career progression within the field.

She was a pioneer in establishing formal library training programs in Hong Kong. In 1964, she created the first Certificate Course for Library Assistants.¹ This foundational step was critical for professionalizing library support staff locally. Building on this, she spearheaded the establishment of graduate-level training for Hong Kong Librarians, an effort that spanned from the late 1970s through the 1990s.²

Her dedication to advanced education led her to organize the first Diploma in Librarianship at the graduate level in 1980.² Demonstrating a commitment to international standards and collaboration, she partnered with Charles Sturt University (Australia) to introduce the Graduate Diploma in Librarianship in Hong Kong in 1990. This collaboration further expanded to include Bachelor and Master programs in the territory.² Her significant contributions to Charles Sturt University's Library Science program in Hong Kong were recognized with her election as an Honorary Fellow of the university in 1989.⁶

Dr. Kan was widely recognized as a "lifelong learner" committed to the continuous development and improvement of librarians.³ Her direct involvement in these programs meant she was "personally responsible for training hundreds of information professionals over the years".⁶ The impact of her educational initiatives was far-reaching, as a majority of local LIS practitioners benefited from these programs, enabling them to pursue higher degrees and attain senior administrative roles.²

In 2005, Dr. Kan further solidified her commitment to fostering excellence in the field by founding the Dr. Kan Lai Bing Award.³ This award was established to recognize outstanding graduates of the Graduate Diploma of Information Studies.³ While the award's purpose is clearly defined, specific recipients are not detailed in the provided information.

Dr. Kan's profound impact on library education transformed librarianship in Hong Kong from a nascent field into a formalized, professionally recognized discipline with clear pathways for advanced study and career progression. Before her efforts, professional training for librarians in Hong Kong was likely informal or limited. By establishing structured, multi-level programs, she created a formal professional identity and a defined career ladder for librarians. This directly led to a significant number of local LIS practitioners benefiting and advancing in their careers. This was not merely about offering courses; it was about professionalizing an entire field. Her work in education is arguably one of her most enduring contributions, as it ensured the continuous development of human capital for Hong Kong's libraries, extending her influence far beyond her direct administrative tenures. The Dr. Kan Lai Bing Award, established years after her formal retirement, serves as a testament to this lasting commitment to nurturing future talent.

Leadership in Professional Associations

Beyond her institutional roles, Dr. Kan Lai Bing played a pivotal role in leading and shaping professional library associations, both locally and internationally. Her involvement in these bodies underscored her dedication to advancing the library profession as a whole.

She was a highly active and influential member of the Hong Kong Library Association (HKLA). Dr. Kan served multiple terms as Chairperson of the HKLA, specifically in 1961, 1962, 1970, 1976, and 1982. Additionally, she held the positions of Vice-President for three terms and President for five terms within the association. These numerous leadership roles demonstrate her consistent and sustained commitment to guiding the development of librarianship within Hong Kong.

On the international stage, Dr. Kan achieved significant recognition as well. She was elected President of the International Association of Orientalist Librarians (IAOL) from 1990 to 1993.² Her international engagement was further highlighted by her participation in a panel discussion on "publishing industry and collection development for Oriental libraries," hosted at Beijing University Library.⁹ This involvement showcased her expertise in specialized collections and her commitment to fostering global collaboration in the field.

Dr. Kan's extensive leadership in both local and international professional associations highlights her commitment to advancing the library profession beyond institutional boundaries. Her roles fostered collaboration and shaped global discourse, particularly on Orientalist librarianship. Her leadership was not confined to individual libraries; it extended to the collective professional body of librarians in Hong Kong, influencing standards, advocacy, and networking. Her position in IAOL signifies a broader, international recognition of her expertise, specifically in a niche but globally significant area of librarianship. By holding these leadership positions, she not only represented Hong Kong librarianship on a global stage but also brought international best practices and perspectives back to Hong Kong, further modernizing the local profession. This dual local and international engagement amplified her overall impact on the field.

Publications and Scholarly Work

Dr. Kan Lai Bing maintained a notable interest in academic research throughout her career, which resulted in the publication of several significant books and articles both locally and overseas.¹ Her scholarly output primarily focused on bibliographical works, which serve as invaluable resources for researchers and historians.

Among her notable publications are:

• Parasitic infections of man and animals: a bibliography of articles in Chinese medical periodicals, 1949-64 (1966). This early work demonstrates her ability to apply her scientific background to the systematic organization of information, creating a specialized research tool.
• Hsiang-kang chih chʻi kʻan, 1845-1979 (Serials of Hong Kong, 1845-1979) (1981), co-authored with Grace H.L. Chu.⁵ This publication provides a comprehensive list of magazines and periodicals commercially published in early Hong Kong, presented in both Chinese and English.¹⁰
• Newspapers of Hong Kong: 1841-1979 (1981), also co-authored with Grace H.L. Chu.⁵ This work is frequently cited in academic bibliographies, indicating its recognized utility and contribution to scholarly research.¹²

Dr. Kan's publications, particularly her bibliographical works on Hong Kong periodicals and newspapers, represent foundational scholarly contributions. These works serve as essential research tools for historians and researchers studying Hong Kong's past. Bibliographies are not merely lists; they are critical instruments for academic inquiry, providing organized access to primary sources. Her detailed compilations of Hong Kong's historical newspapers and serials are invaluable for anyone investigating the social, political, or cultural history of the region. This demonstrates her role not just as a librarian, but as a scholar who actively facilitated historical research. These publications contribute significantly to the long-term accessibility and understanding of Hong Kong's historical record, ensuring that future generations of scholars have a structured gateway to these vital resources, thereby making a direct contribution to knowledge and historical preservation.

Title	Co-author (if any)	Publication Year
Parasitic infections of man and animals: a bibliography of articles in Chinese medical periodicals, 1949-64	N/A	1966
Hsiang-kang chih chʻi kʻan, 1845-1979 (Serials of Hong Kong, 1845-1979)	Grace H.L. Chu	1981
Newspapers of Hong Kong: 1841-1979	Grace H.L. Chu	1981

Table 2: Selected Publications by Dr. Kan Lai Bing

Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Kan Lai Bing's exceptional contributions to librarianship and education were widely recognized through numerous prestigious awards and honorary recognitions from institutions in both Hong Kong and Australia.

She was honored with the title of Honorary University Fellow by her alma mater, The University of Hong Kong, in 1997.¹ Her significant influence on library science education in Australia was also acknowledged; she was elected Honorary University Fellow by Charles Sturt University in 1998.² It is worth noting that a separate record indicates she was an Honorary Fellow of Charles Sturt University since 1989, likely reflecting a long-standing relationship and earlier recognition of her contributions to their Library Science program in Hong Kong.⁶

Further cementing her academic standing, Dr. Kan was awarded an Honorary Doctorate (HonDLitt) by Charles Sturt University, Australia, in 1994.² This honorary degree signifies a high level of academic esteem and recognition of her scholarly and professional impact.

In addition to these academic honors, Dr. Kan held esteemed professional memberships, including being an Associate of the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) and a Member of the Institute of Information Scientists.⁶

In 2002, Dr Kan was awarded the HKSAR Medal of Honour for her valuable contribution to the public library services and the development and training of librarians in Hong Kong.

The numerous honorary awards and fellowships from prestigious universities in both Hong Kong and Australia underscore Dr. Kan's international recognition and the profound impact of her contributions to library science and education, particularly in fostering cross-border academic collaboration. These awards are not merely ceremonial; they are formal acknowledgements by her academic and professional peers of her significant and lasting contributions. The fact that these recognitions come from institutions in different countries highlights her international standing and the global reach of her influence, particularly through her work with Charles Sturt University in developing LIS programs. Such accolades cement her status as a leading figure whose work had tangible, positive effects on the field, serving as a testament to her pioneering spirit and dedication to advancing librarianship on both a regional and international scale.

Award/Recognition	Awarding Institution	Year
Honorary University Fellow	The University of Hong Kong	1997
Honorary University Fellow	Charles Sturt University	1998
Honorary Doctorate (HonDLitt)	Charles Sturt University	1994
Associate	Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA)	N/A
Member	Institute of Information Scientists	N/A

Table 3: Awards and Honorary Recognitions

Legacy and Influence

Dr. Kan Lai Bing's legacy in Hong Kong librarianship is multifaceted and enduring, extending far beyond her direct administrative roles. She was a visionary leader who fundamentally reshaped the infrastructure, professional standards, and educational pathways of librarianship in Hong Kong, ensuring its modernization and sustainability for future generations. Her impact is systemic and long-lasting.

As a transformative leader, she was pivotal in evolving university libraries from mere repositories into "vital learning centers".¹ Her leadership placed her at the forefront of academic library development in Hong Kong, both in terms of architectural planning and technological integration.⁶ Her efforts ensured not only the exponential growth of library collections but also the proactive adoption of modern systems and services, such as sophisticated turnkey automation systems, CD networks, and dedicated audio-visual departments.³

Dr. Kan was also the principal architect of library education in Hong Kong. Her initiatives in establishing the first Certificate Course for Library Assistants in 1964 and subsequently pioneering graduate-level programs, including the Diploma in Librarianship and collaborations with Charles Sturt University for Bachelor and Master programs, fundamentally professionalized the LIS field in Hong Kong.¹ She was personally responsible for training "hundreds of information professionals," thereby creating a robust pipeline of skilled personnel for the region's libraries.⁶

Her role as an advocate and benefactor was equally significant. She successfully secured a stable and substantial funding model for HKU libraries by convincing the university to allocate a fixed percentage of its budget to the library, a monumental achievement that ensured long-term financial health and capacity for innovation.⁶ Furthermore, her establishment of the Dr. Kan Lai Bing Award in 2005 continues to encourage and recognize excellence in LIS education.³ She was remembered by colleagues as a "respected mentor, a generous benefactor, and a dear friend".¹

As an international figure, her leadership in the International Association of Orientalist Librarians and her extensive collaboration with Charles Sturt University demonstrate her global reach and influence, bringing international best practices to Hong Kong and elevating the region's librarianship on the world stage.

The enduring impact of Dr. Kan's work is evident in the continued development of Hong Kong's library services. The CUHK Library has expressed its "heartfelt gratitude" and commitment to carrying forward the legacy she helped build.³ Her continuous efforts to promote the LIS profession for "more than six decades" underscore a profound, lifelong dedication.¹ Her contributions were not isolated but interconnected, forming a comprehensive strategy for professionalizing and modernizing libraries. For instance, improved funding enabled technological upgrades, while new educational programs ensured skilled personnel to manage these advancements. This holistic approach created a self-sustaining ecosystem for library development. This robust foundation, upon which current and future library services in Hong Kong are built, is a testament to her pioneering spirit and continues to shape the professional identity and operational excellence of librarianship in the region.

2. hkuspace.hku.hk, accessed on June 25, 2025, https://hkuspace.hku.hk/fellowship/honorary-fellowship-ceremony-2017/person?name=Dr%20KAN%20Lai-bing
3. CUHK Library E-newsletter - The Chinese University of Hong Kong, accessed on June 25, 2025, https://cloud.itsc.cuhk.edu.hk/enewsasp/app/article-details.aspx/E25C3D53B89E327E76628F3D53E28A50/
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13. EVALUATION OF MARKETING STRATEGIES OF HONG KONG, accessed on June 25, 2025, https://hub.hku.hk/bitstream/10722/38004/1/FullText.pdf
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