Letters | Why University of Hong Kong should reconsider phasing out print newspapers from its libraries
- Readers discuss HKU’s decision to offer only electronic access to newspapers in its libraries, the government’s vaccination and testing record website, and the city’s road map to achieving carbon neutrality
As all the print newspapers the libraries subscribed to are now available on single/multiple e-platforms with search, download and zoom-in functions that can better address research and browsing needs, the management believes it’s time to migrate entirely to electronic newspapers and channel its efforts towards the promotion of e-newspapers and improving the user experience.
The management seems to ignore the fact that many elderly alumni who often use the library’s facilities have poor eyesight, and too much screen time can have an adverse impact on the eyesight of people of all ages.
Moreover, many readers enjoy simply holding a newspaper in their hands and reading, rereading or browsing through the content and photographs in the different sections.
Since the libraries are well-funded by the government, alumni and Jockey Club, is it really too expensive to continue providing print newspapers so they can be easily accessed by all readers and to protect young students’ eyesight?
The University of Hong Kong is likely to be the first and only government-funded tertiary institute in Hong Kong to cancel print newspapers. I hope the library management will do more consultation and observation before cancelling print newspapers.
