Public IT Facilities

Many public facilities are available in Hong Kong where you can access computers and the Internet, use electronic services, and develop new skills that will be beneficial in the information age. Here you can learn more about what these facilities offer, where they can be found and how you can make use of them.

Facilities at Public Libraries

Another way you can gain access to computers is through public libraries. Computers are installed in static public libraries to enable you to browse the Internet. To facilitate the browsing of the Internet by the visually impaired, some computers are installed with special aiding devices, including screen magnifying software as well as Cantonese and English voice synthesiser software.

To support the public's self-learning and information needs, the Hong Kong Public Libraries have developed the Digital Collection to provide one-stop interactive multimedia information service that allows the public to search, browse, view or listen to all kinds of multimedia materials through computers inside the library or through the Internet. You may surf the Internet with computers as well. Through the online booking service, users with valid library cards can reserve for the use of computers.

The Hong Kong Public Libraries provides over 2,000 Computer and Computer for Kids in its static libraries to enable the public to

• access the digitized resources, Library Catalogue, e-books, and online databases;
• browse the Internet;
• use commonly used software such as Microsoft Office suite, with applications for word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation;
• use application software including Adobe desktop apps for web authoring, photo editing, drawing and graphic design (available in the Computer & Information Centres only) and
• scan document (available in the Computer & Information Centres only).

Registered borrowers can book to use the Computer and Computer for Kids through Computer Facilities Booking 7 days in advance with their library account, they can also book through telephone or in person. Please check out the location, opening hours and enquiry number of branch libraries on this website.

Computer Facilities & Courses from Non-governmental Organisations

You can consider the various computer facilities provided by non-governmental organisations to develop your IT skills. Below is one of the examples.

Christian Action Community Cyber Centre

The Community Cyber Centre is co-organised by the Christian Action and Home Affairs Department with its services launched in July 2007. Members of the public are welcome to enrol free of charge as members of the Christian Action Community Cyber Centre and enjoy its free IT facilities.

Internet access is available at all computer workstations and selected computers are equipped with Smart Identity Card Readers for users to enjoy secure public services. To facilitate the use of computers by the visually impaired, the centre has also installed dedicated hardware and software for people in need. These include screen magnifiers, screen readers and braille displays.

You can access more computer facilities and training courses provided by non-governmental organisations through the link below. These courses cover a range of subjects – from basic computing skills to more advanced software packages.