Home > What's New > 2024
What's New
What's New
"Wedding Stories in Archives" roving exhibition and "Meet up with You" programme (Hong Kong Central Library)
3 December 2024
 |
 |
 |
The Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) will hold a "Wedding Stories in Archives" roving exhibition at the Exhibition Gallery 1 of the Hong Kong Central Library from 3 to 19 December 2024.
In an attempt to strengthen communication and interaction with the public, the PRO will also hold a "Meet up with You" programme on 7 December 2024 (Saturday). Details are as follows:
Date: 7 December 2024 (Saturday)
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Venue: Exhibition Gallery 1 of the Hong Kong Central Library
Content: To introduce visitors to the roving exhibition about the content of exhibition, PRO's services and to distribute souvenirs (souvenirs will be available while stocks last).
Admission to the roving exhibition and "Meet up with You" programme is free.
Information regarding roving exhibitions and "Meet up with You" programme at other venues will be released on "Wedding Stories in Archives" thematic webpage (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/wedding/en/exhibition-event/index.html), GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) and Public Records Office's Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice) on an ongoing basis.
Photo Album about Lantau Island in the 1980s
15 November 2024
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Lantau Island in the 1980s" is accessible here.
GRS Annual Report 2023
30 October 2024
|
|
|
|
The Annual Report 2023 of the Government Records Service has been issued. Please click here to view.
Photo Album about Cheung Sha Wan and Sham Shui Po in the 1960s
18 October 2024
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Cheung Sha Wan and Sham Shui Po in the 1960s" is accessible here.
Exploring Hong Kong's wedding footprint through the "Wedding Stories in Archives" exhibition
2 September 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) today (2 September) launches the annual thematic exhibition "Wedding Stories in Archives", to revisit with members of the public the evolution of Hong Kong's marriage systems and wedding customs.
The "Wedding Stories in Archives" exhibition presents over 70 selected items. Apart from PRO's holdings, there are also items from the Hong Kong Museum of History, the Immigration Department, and the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Archives, to guide members of the public in exploring the evolution of the following Hong Kong's marriage systems and customs:
- various ways in which couples tied the knot before the enactment of marriage law;
- the earliest law related to civil marriage was enacted in 1852;
- the validity of marriages performed during the Japanese Occupation; and
- the institutionalisation of monogamous marriage in 1971.
Many traditional wedding customs have fallen out of favour or been simplified as times flied. Images displaying in the exhibition, including register of betrothal gifts, notices about marriages, and scenes of the bride being carried to the bridegroom's place in a red sedan chair, offer glimpses into Hong Kong's past wedding customs. Additionally, the exhibition revisits the development of marriage registries, including the opening of the first Sub-Registry for marriages in Kowloon in 1956, the relocation of Principal Marriage Registry to the High Block of the Hong Kong City Hall in 1962, etc. — places steeped in collective memory of citizens.
The "Wedding Stories in Archives" exhibition is open from today (2 September) onwards from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. (except public holidays) at the Exhibition Hall on the second floor of the Hong Kong Public Records Building at 13 Tsui Ping Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon. Admission is free. To enhance visitors' experience, a new optical illusion backdrop featuring traditional wedding themes has been exclusively set up near the entrance to the Exhibition Hall. Visitors who complete missions on the exhibition leaflet will receive special souvenirs.
To facilitate those who are unable to visit in person, the PRO has developed an online exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/wedding/en/home/index.html). In addition, the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice) will also share selected holdings and interesting stories featured in the exhibition.
The PRO will be organising roving exhibitions to take this thematic exhibition to various districts of Hong Kong at a later date. Details will be announced later on the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) and the PRO Facebook page. For enquiries, please contact the PRO at 2195 7700 or email to proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
2024
"Wedding Stories in Archives" roving exhibition and "Meet up with You" programme (Hong Kong Central Library)
3 December 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) will hold a "Wedding Stories in Archives" roving exhibition at the Exhibition Gallery 1 of the Hong Kong Central Library from 3 to 19 December 2024.
In an attempt to strengthen communication and interaction with the public, the PRO will also hold a "Meet up with You" programme on 7 December 2024 (Saturday). Details are as follows:
Date: 7 December 2024 (Saturday)
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Venue: Exhibition Gallery 1 of the Hong Kong Central Library
Content: To introduce visitors to the roving exhibition about the content of exhibition, PRO's services and to distribute souvenirs (souvenirs will be available while stocks last).
Admission to the roving exhibition and "Meet up with You" programme is free.
Information regarding roving exhibitions and "Meet up with You" programme at other venues will be released on "Wedding Stories in Archives" thematic webpage (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/wedding/en/exhibition-event/index.html), GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) and Public Records Office's Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice) on an ongoing basis.
Photo Album about Lantau Island in the 1980s
15 November 2024
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Lantau Island in the 1980s" is accessible here.
GRS Annual Report 2023
30 October 2024
|
|
|
|
The Annual Report 2023 of the Government Records Service has been issued. Please click here to view.
Photo Album about Cheung Sha Wan and Sham Shui Po in the 1960s
18 October 2024
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Cheung Sha Wan and Sham Shui Po in the 1960s" is accessible here.
Exploring Hong Kong's wedding footprint through the "Wedding Stories in Archives" exhibition
2 September 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) today (2 September) launches the annual thematic exhibition "Wedding Stories in Archives", to revisit with members of the public the evolution of Hong Kong's marriage systems and wedding customs.
The "Wedding Stories in Archives" exhibition presents over 70 selected items. Apart from PRO's holdings, there are also items from the Hong Kong Museum of History, the Immigration Department, and the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Archives, to guide members of the public in exploring the evolution of the following Hong Kong's marriage systems and customs:
- various ways in which couples tied the knot before the enactment of marriage law;
- the earliest law related to civil marriage was enacted in 1852;
- the validity of marriages performed during the Japanese Occupation; and
- the institutionalisation of monogamous marriage in 1971.
Many traditional wedding customs have fallen out of favour or been simplified as times flied. Images displaying in the exhibition, including register of betrothal gifts, notices about marriages, and scenes of the bride being carried to the bridegroom's place in a red sedan chair, offer glimpses into Hong Kong's past wedding customs. Additionally, the exhibition revisits the development of marriage registries, including the opening of the first Sub-Registry for marriages in Kowloon in 1956, the relocation of Principal Marriage Registry to the High Block of the Hong Kong City Hall in 1962, etc. — places steeped in collective memory of citizens.
The "Wedding Stories in Archives" exhibition is open from today (2 September) onwards from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. (except public holidays) at the Exhibition Hall on the second floor of the Hong Kong Public Records Building at 13 Tsui Ping Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon. Admission is free. To enhance visitors' experience, a new optical illusion backdrop featuring traditional wedding themes has been exclusively set up near the entrance to the Exhibition Hall. Visitors who complete missions on the exhibition leaflet will receive special souvenirs.
To facilitate those who are unable to visit in person, the PRO has developed an online exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/wedding/en/home/index.html). In addition, the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice) will also share selected holdings and interesting stories featured in the exhibition.
The PRO will be organising roving exhibitions to take this thematic exhibition to various districts of Hong Kong at a later date. Details will be announced later on the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) and the PRO Facebook page. For enquiries, please contact the PRO at 2195 7700 or email to proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Lam Tin Public Library)
3 July 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Lam Tin Public Library (5/F), from 3 to 17 July 2024. Admission is free.
Closure of Exhibition Hall
24 June 2024
|
|
|
|
To prepare for staging the upcoming thematic exhibition, the Exhibition Hall will be temporarily closed starting from 18 July 2024. Please visit the exhibition before it closes down.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Tung Chung Public Library)
14 June 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Tung Chung Public Library (G/F), from 15 to 30 June 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
International Archives Week 2024
6 June 2024
|
|
|
|
In celebration of the International Archives Week, the Government Records Service (GRS) will participate in the exhibition organised by the Hong Kong Archives Society on 8 June 2024. More than 20 replicas of our archival holdings will be displayed in the exhibition. Details of the exhibition are as follows:
Date: 8 June 2024 (Saturday)
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Venue: Sally Wong Leung Hall, G/F, Vicwood K.T. Chong Building, Po Leung Kuk, 66 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay
The exhibition is free for admission. For further details about the exhibition, please visit the website of Hong Kong Archives Society at http://www.archives.org.hk/en/page.php?pagename=latest_news&submenu=LATEST&nid=168
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Sheung Shui Public Library)
31 May 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Sheung Shui Public Library, from 1 to 13 June 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
New price list of our reproduction and records certification services
27 May 2024
|
|
|
|
A new price list of our reproduction of holdings and records certification services is effective from 27 May 2024. You may access the price list through this link.
For enquiries, please call 2195 7700.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (North Kwai Chung Public Library)
17 May 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at North Kwai Chung Public Library (2/F), from 17 to 30 May 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Ma On Shan Public Library)
30 April 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Ma On Shan Public Library (1/F), from 1 to 15 May 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Tuen Mun Public Library)
12 April 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Tuen Mun Public Library (2/F), from 13 to 29 April 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library)
16 January 2024
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library (Exhibition Hall, G/F), from 16 to 31 January 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Hong Kong Central Library)
22 December 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Exhibition Gallery 2 of the Hong Kong Central Library, commencing on 22 December 2023 and concluding at 4pm on 9 January 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
2023
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition (Hong Kong Central Library)
22 December 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" roving exhibition at Exhibition Gallery 2 of the Hong Kong Central Library, commencing on 22 December 2023 and concluding at 4pm on 9 January 2024. Admission is free.
Information regarding the roving exhibition at other venues will be released on "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/exhibition-event/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
Photo Album about Hawker Areas in Sha Tin in 1974
15 December 2023
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Hawker Areas in Sha Tin in 1974" is accessible here.
Photo Album about Mui Wo in the 1980s
20 November 2023
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Mui Wo in the 1980s" is accessible here.
New price list of our reproduction and records certification services
17 October 2023
|
|
|
|
A new price list of our reproduction of holdings and records certification services is effective from 17 October 2023. You may access the price list through this link.
For enquiries, please call 2195 7700.
GRS Annual Report 2022
4 October 2023
|
|
|
|
The Annual Report 2022 of the Government Records Service has been issued. Please click here to view.
"Yesterday's Vacation in HK" exhibition invites audience to take a trip down to old Hong Kong
15 September 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) today (September 15) launches the annual thematic exhibition "Yesterday's Vacation in HK", which takes the audience on a journey through Hong Kong's past.
Featuring a selection of tourism-related archival holdings from the 1950s to the 1980s, the exhibition unveils visitors’ diverse experience in the city and a variety of tourist attractions under four themes, namely "Sight and Scenes", "Shopping Paradise", "Paradise for Foodies", and "Happenings in the City". Do you still remember how the original Peak Tower—one of the distinctive landmarks in Hong Kong—looked like before its redevelopment? How did the Sung Dynasty Village and the Haw Par Mansion demonstrate Chinese traditional culture and characteristics? In addition to the sightseeing spots in urban area, the information for visitors at that time also recommended various attractions beyond the city's hustle and bustle, such as the New Territories and the outlying islands, to visitors craving for a relaxing holiday.
The exhibition also sheds light on different facets of lives in old Hong Kong. Shopping malls began to emerge in Hong Kong in the 1960s, which allowed visitors to shop at modern and glamourous shopping arcades apart from treasure hunting at street-level shops and traditional markets. Sampans at the typhoon shelters, floating restaurants, Dai Pai Dongs (on-street cooked food stalls), and Chinese restaurants are the common food memories of both locals and visitors towards Hong Kong. A wide range of events, including the Dragon Boat Festival Races and the Festival of Asian Arts, were windows for visitors to experience the city's unique blend of traditional and modern elements. "Yesterday's Vacation in HK" exhibition provides an entry point to the audience for rediscovering Hong Kong’s distinctiveness through the lens of visitors.
Members of the public are welcome to visit the Exhibition Hall where a selection of over 70 archival holdings is on view starting from today. A thematic backdrop near the entrance of the Exhibition Hall offers a photogenic spot for the audience to begin their exhibition journey. An "Exhibition Pass" booklet is also available on-site. The exhibition opens from Monday through Friday, from 9am to 5.45pm (except for public holidays), in the Exhibition Hall on the second floor of the Hong Kong Public Records Building, 13 Tsui Ping Road, Kwun Tong. Admission is free.
Members of the public can find more precious archival images by browsing the online exhibition (www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/yvhk/en/home/index.html), and follow the Facebook Page of PRO (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice) for more interesting stories covered in the exhibition.
PRO will host roving exhibitions in different districts in the coming months, and the relevant information will be announced later on the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk). For enquiries, please call the PRO at 2195 7700 or email to proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Closure of Exhibition Hall
11 August 2023
|
|
|
|
To prepare for staging the upcoming thematic exhibition, the Exhibition Hall will be temporarily closed starting from 28 August 2023. Please visit the exhibition before it closes down.
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition (Tuen Mun Public Library)
19 June 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a roving exhibition at the Tuen Mun Public Library from 19 to 30 June 2023 to showcase the selected themes relating to "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation" under an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). Admission is free.
International Archives Day 2023
8 June 2023
|
|
|
|
In celebration of the International Archives Day (IAD), the Government Records Service (GRS) will participate in the exhibition organised by the Hong Kong Archives Society on 10 June 2023. More than 30 replicas of our archival holdings will be displayed in the exhibition. Details of the exhibition of IAD are as follows:
Date: 10 June 2023 (Saturday)
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Venue: CLP Pulse, 147 Argyle Street, Kowloon.
The exhibition is free for admission. For further details about the exhibition, please visit the website of Hong Kong Archives Society at http://www.archives.org.hk/en/page.php?pagename=latest_news&submenu=LATEST&nid=145
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition (Sheung Shui Public Library)
2 June 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a roving exhibition at the Sheung Shui Public Library from 2 to 15 June 2023 to showcase the selected themes relating to "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation" under an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). Admission is free.
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition (Lai Chi Kok Public Library)
18 May 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a roving exhibition at the Lai Chi Kok Public Library from 18 to 31 May 2023 to showcase the selected themes relating to "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation" under an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). Admission is free.
Records destruction information of Bureaux/Departments - 2022
4 May 2023
|
|
|
|
The records destruction information of bureaux/departments in 2022 is now accessible here.
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition (Lam Tin Public Library)
3 May 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a roving exhibition at the Lam Tin Public Library from 3 to 16 May 2023 to showcase the selected themes relating to "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation" under an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). Admission is free.
Exhibition Hall Reopens
17 April 2023
|
|
|
|
The Exhibition Hall has now reopened. Members of the public are welcome to visit the current thematic exhibition onsite.
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition (South Kwai Chung Public Library)
17 April 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a roving exhibition at the South Kwai Chung Public Library from 17 to 30 April 2023 to showcase the selected themes relating to "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation" under an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). Admission is free.
Temporary Closure of Exhibition Hall
14 April 2023
|
|
|
|
Starting from 17 April 2023, the Exhibition Hall will be temporarily closed until further notice due to urgent maintenance works. Members of the public are encouraged to view the online exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html) while the Exhibition Hall closes down.
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition (Aberdeen Public Library)
3 April 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a roving exhibition at the Aberdeen Public Library from 3 to 13 April 2023 to showcase the selected themes relating to "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation" under an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). Admission is free.
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition (Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library)
6 January 2023
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will hold a roving exhibition at the Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library (3/F) from 7 to 30 January 2023 to showcase the 10 selected themes relating to "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation" under an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). Admission is free.
GRS Annual Report 2021
30 December 2022
|
|
|
|
The Annual Report 2021 of the Government Records Service has been issued. Please click here to view.
2022
GRS Annual Report 2021
30 December 2022
|
|
|
|
The Annual Report 2021 of the Government Records Service has been issued. Please click here to view.
Latest service arrangements for the Government Records Service
29 December 2022
|
|
|
|
Following the Government's announcement regarding the latest disease prevention arrangements, starting from today (December 29), the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will provide services for members of the public during opening hours (from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.45pm (excluding public holidays)) without requiring them to make a reservation through the Online Catalogue. The Search Room will continue to be open on Saturdays by prior appointment. A maximum of 20 appointments can be received on every Saturday (except public holidays). Details of the opening arrangements of Search Room on Saturdays are accessible at this link.
Meanwhile, onsite group visits and public education programmes will resume while online group visits will continue to be conducted.
Visitors are required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Hong Kong Public Records Building (the Building), and follow the infection control measures, including temperature checks upon entering the building and applying hand sanitiser.
For latest updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please call 2195 7700 during the opening hours of the PRO, or email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Photo Album about Sham Shui Po in the 1980s
16 December 2022
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Sham Shui Po in the 1980s" is accessible here.
New price list of our reproduction and records certification services
15 December 2022
|
|
|
|
A new price list of our reproduction of holdings and records certification services is effective from 15 December 2022. You may access the price list through this link.
For enquiries, please call 2195 7700.
Latest arrangements for entering the Hong Kong Public Records Building
14 December 2022
|
|
|
|
In light of the Government's latest adjustments on anti-epidemic measures, starting from today (December 14) visitors entering the Hong Kong Public Records Building (the Building) are not required to scan the venue QR code with the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile application, but all visitors must comply with the requirements of the Vaccine Pass when entering the Building.
Visitors are also required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Building, and follow the infection control measures, including temperature checks upon entering the building and applying hand sanitiser.
For latest updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please call 2195 7700 during the opening hours of the PRO, or email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Photo Album about Scenes of Hong Kong
30 November 2022
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Scenes of Hong Kong" is accessible here.
“Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition
22 November 2022
|
|
|
|
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Government Records Service (GRS), the GRS organises an "Archives 50 Years" thematic exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). The exhibition, featuring themes closely related to people's daily lives under four categories, namely "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation", unveils 50 stories behind the archival records, and takes visitors on a journey through Hong Kong's historical development.
The GRS holds an “Archives 50 Years” roving exhibition, featuring stories of 10 selected themes and their precious archival images, at Exhibition Gallery 1 of the Hong Kong Central Library from 22 November to 3 December 2022. Admission is free.
Information of roving exhibition at another venue will be released on "Archives 50 Years" thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/home/index.html) and GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) on an ongoing basis.
Records destruction information of Bureaux/Departments - 2021
12 October 2022
|
|
|
|
The records destruction information of bureaux/departments in 2021 is now accessible here.
"Archives 50 Years" celebration events unveiled:
Exhibition and thematic website newly launched
11 October 2022
|
|
|
|
The year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the Government Records Service (GRS) and a major milestone for the GRS. On this special occasion, the GRS hosts a thematic exhibition and organises a series of events under the theme of "Archives 50 Years". The GRS also launches a thematic website (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/home/index.html) to showcase the development of the GRS over the past five decades and our valuable holdings, and share some interesting behind-the-scene stories of the GRS staff at work.
The "Archives 50 Years" exhibition, featuring 50 themes closely related to people’s daily lives under the four categories namely "Food", "Land and Housing", "Transport" and "Recreation", is open from today (October 11) onwards. The exhibition unveils 50 stories behind the archival records. Visitors could shuttle in the past and explore Hong Kong in the old days. Members of the public can find the 50 stories and the precious archival images by browsing the online exhibition (https://www.grs.gov.hk/ws/online/50years/en/sec3/index.html). They can also visit the Exhibition Hall in person to view a selection of 10 themes displayed. The exhibition opens from Monday through Friday, from 9am to 5.45pm (except for public holidays), in the Exhibition Hall on the second floor of the Hong Kong Public Records Building (Building), 13 Tsui Ping Road, Kwun Tong. Admission is free.
More information of the activities will be released on the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk). The Public Records Office (PRO) will also share interesting stories about the exhibition and the work of the GRS staff on its Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice).
In light of the COVID-19 epidemic, members of the public are advised to pay attention to our latest announcement prior to the visit to the Building. For enquiries, please call 2195 7700 or email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Photo Album about Cheung Chau Bun Festival in 1990
6 October 2022
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Cheung Chau Bun Festival in 1990" is accessible here.
New price list of our reproduction and records certification services
29 September 2022
|
|
|
|
A new price list of our reproduction of holdings and records certification services is effective from 29 September 2022. You may access the price list through this link.
For enquiries, please call 2195 7700.
Photo Album about Kowloon-Canton Railway Section between Mong Kok and Sha Tin in 1984
16 September 2022
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Kowloon-Canton Railway Section between Mong Kok and Sha Tin in 1984" is accessible here.
Closure of Exhibition Hall
30 August 2022
|
|
|
|
To prepare for staging the upcoming thematic exhibition, the Exhibition Hall will be temporarily closed starting from 13 September 2022. Please visit the exhibition before it closes down.
Latest service arrangements for the Government Records Service
20 April 2022
|
|
|
|
The Government Records Service (GRS) announced today (April 20) that starting from April 21, the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will resume normal opening hours (from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.45pm and Saturday from 9am to 1pm (excluding public holidays)) to provide services for members of the public who have made a reservation through the Online Catalogue. The quota is 15 users per day, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The Search Room services will continue to be suspended for those who have not made an online reservation for holdings.
The Exhibition Hall of the Hong Kong Public Records Building (Building) will also be reopened starting from April 21. Group visits and public education programmes will continue to be conducted online until further notice.
Members of the public are required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Hong Kong Public Records Building, and follow the infection control measures, including presenting the Vaccine Pass, the use of the 'LeaveHomeSafe' mobile application, temperature checks upon entering the building and applying hand sanitiser.
For latest updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please call 2195 7700 during the opening hours of the PRO, or email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Latest Service arrangements for the Government Records Service
30 March 2022
|
|
|
|
To align with the announcement by the Government to resume public services gradually from April 1, the Government Records Service (GRS) announced today (March 30) that starting from April 1, the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 5.45pm until further notice. The Search Room will provide services for members of the public who have made reservations for holdings through the Online Catalogue and the quota is seven users per day, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Services will be limited to:
1. Loan and circulation service for reserved holdings; and
2. Self-service reproduction of holdings.
The above services will be suspended for those who have not made an online reservation for holdings. Members of the public are required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Hong Kong Public Records Building, and follow the infection control measures, including the use of the 'LeaveHomeSafe' mobile application, temperature checks upon entering the building and applying hand sanitiser.
The Exhibition Hall in the Hong Kong Public Records Building will continue to be closed. Group visits and public education programmes will continue to be conducted online until further notice.
For latest updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please call 2195 7700 during the opening hours of the PRO, or email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
GRS Annual Report 2020
28 January 2022
|
|
|
|
The Annual Report 2020 of the Government Records Service has been issued. Please click here to view.
Online lecture "Public Records Office's Collections about Hong Kong under Japanese Occupation"
26 January 2022
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office of the Government Records Service will co-organise an online lecture "Public Records Office's Collections about Hong Kong under Japanese Occupation" with the Hong Kong Museum of History on 29 January from 3:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. This online lecture highlights Public Records Office's wartime collections. It will be conducted in Cantonese. Participants can join the online lecture free of charge from the YouTube Channel of the Hong Kong Museum of History at https://youtu.be/vCYXUjGzsmo.
For further details about the online lecture, please visit the website of the Hong Kong Museum of History at https://hk.history.museum/documents/54401/25412562/MH_EA_2nd_world_war_lecture_poster_05_AW-01.pdf.
Latest Service Arrangements of Public Records Office of Government Records Service
6 January 2022
|
|
|
|
The Government Records Service (GRS) announced today (January 6) that in view of the latest situation of COVID-19, further measures have to be adopted to maintain social distancing. Starting from January 7 (Friday), the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will be temporarily closed and the loan and circulation service for holdings will be suspended. The Exhibition Hall in the Hong Kong Public Records Building will also be temporarily closed. Group visits and public education programmes will continue to be conducted online.
The above measures will be implemented until further notice. The GRS will closely monitor the situation and review the above arrangements in a timely manner. For updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) and PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please call 2195 7700 during the opening hours of the PRO, or email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
2021
"Identity Card – A Timeless Proof" roving exhibition
24 December 2021
|
|
|
|
To showcase the transformation of the Hong Kong Identity Card throughout these 70 years, the Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) holds the roving exhibition "Identity Card – A Timeless Proof" at the Ping Shan Tin Shui Wai Public Library (3/F) from 24 December 2021 to 17 February 2022. Admission is free.
Photo Album about Kai Tak Airport in 1998
6 December 2021
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Kai Tak Airport in 1998" is accessible here.
Photo Album about Cultural and Leisure Complex at Choi Hung Road in 1988
26 November 2021
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Cultural and Leisure Complex at Choi Hung Road in 1988" is accessible here.
Photo Album about Quarry Bay Park in 1993
8 November 2021
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "Quarry Bay Park in 1993" is accessible here.
Strict enforcement of requirement of using "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile application when entering the Hong Kong Public Records Building
29 October 2021
|
|
|
|
To align with the announcement by the Government that the use of the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile application (the app) when entering government buildings or offices will be strictly enforced, the Government Records Service (GRS) announced that starting from November 1, except for exempted persons, all persons will be required to use the app to scan the venue QR code before they are allowed to enter the Hong Kong Public Records Building (the Building). Unwillingness to use the app will not be considered as justification for granting exemption by the GRS.
Under the new arrangement, persons who are aged below 12 or aged 65 or above, those with disabilities that render use of the app difficult or individual persons who are granted exemptions by GRS depending on the actual circumstances, will be exempted from the requirement of using the app when they enter the Building. However, they are required to complete a record form to register their names, the first four digits or letters of their identification documents, their contact numbers and the date and time of their visits. They are also required to present relevant identification documents for verification at the request of the staff on-site during registration. The staff will also verify the contact numbers by making phone calls. We call on members of the public to download and use the app as soon as possible and appeal for their co-operation with the staff on-site in respect of the instructions given as a concerted effort to minimise the risk of further transmission of the COVID-19. Any person who knowingly provides information that is false or misleading in a material particular is liable to prosecution. As it will take time to verify personal particulars of exempted persons under the new arrangement, their waiting time for entering the Building may be lengthened. We appeal for the understanding of members of the public.
Members of the public are also required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Building, and follow the infection control measures, including temperature checks upon entering the Building and applying hand sanitiser.
Furthermore, the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will continue its normal opening hours (from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.45pm and Saturday from 9am to 1pm (excluding public holidays)) to provide services for members of the public who have made a reservation through the Online Catalogue. The quota is 15 users per day, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The Search Room services will continue to be suspended for those who have not made an online reservation for holdings. The Exhibition Hall of the Building will remain open (from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.45pm (excluding public holidays)). Group visits and public education programmes will continue to be conducted online until further notice.
For enquiries, please call 2195 7700 during the opening hours of the PRO, or email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Photo Album about North Point in the 1980s
25 October 2021
|
|
|
|
A new digital photo album entitled "North Point in the 1980s" is accessible here.
"Identity Card – A Timeless Proof" roving exhibition and talk
31 August 2021
|
|
|
|
The Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) will hold the roving exhibition "Identity Card – A Timeless Proof" at the Immigration Tower (1/F, Footbridge Level) from 4 September to 28 November to showcase the transformation of the ID card throughout these 70 years.
We will also organise a talk titled "Evolution of Identity Card: An Archival Story" on 4 September at the Hong Kong Museum of History. The talk, to be conducted in Cantonese, will cover the current exhibition as well as the functions and services of the PRO. Limited seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Admission to the roving exhibition and talk is free.
Current Exhibition: " Identity Card – A Timeless Proof "
23 August 2021
|
|
|
|
Going from a paper document to a laminated card, from computerisation to smart authentication, the evolution of Hong Kong identity card (ID card) has witnessed the changes of society and the advancement of technological development since its issuance in 1949. The transformation of ID card throughout these 70 years is introduced in the Public Records Office's annual exhibition titled "Identity Card – A Timeless Proof" this year.
The "Identity Card – A Timeless Proof" exhibition is open from today (August 23) onwards from Monday through Friday, from 9am to 5.45pm (except for public holidays) at the Exhibition Hall on the second floor of the Hong Kong Public Records Building at 13 Tsui Ping Road, Kwun Tong. Admission is free.
The exhibition showcases over 70 holdings. Apart from displaying all generations of ID card and equipment for the production of ID card on loan from the Immigration Department, exhibits include photos related to registration of persons in Hong Kong, for example, precious historical photos showing members of the public taking the ID card photo and mobile registration team in action in the 1960s, as well as Government promotional posters on ID card registration, etc.
Besides that, the exhibition features the reasons behind the changes in the designs of ID card. Why didn’t the juvenile ID card in the 1960s include the photo and given name of the card holder? Why were photo and given name added to the card in the 1970s? How was the registration of persons legislation amended? Answers can be found in the "Identity Card – A Timeless Proof" exhibition.
In light of the COVID-19 epidemic, cleaning and disinfection measures will be stepped up at the Exhibition Hall. Visitors should follow the infection control measures implemented at the Hong Kong Public Records Building, including wearing masks at all times when they are inside the Building, undergoing temperature checks before entering the Building, applying hand sanitiser and scanning the "LeaveHomeSafe" QR code or registering through other means.
Wish to enjoy a more laid-back tour? The Public Records Office has launched an online exhibition, and will share interesting information about the history of Hong Kong ID card through its Facebook page. Members of the public are welcomed to visit the Facebook page. In addition, the Public Records Office will also hold roving exhibitions. For details, please visit the Government Records Service website, the Public Records Office Facebook page or call the Public Records Office at 2195 7700.
Closure of Exhibition Hall
6 July 2021
|
|
|
|
To prepare for staging the upcoming thematic exhibition, the Exhibition Hall will be temporarily closed starting from 15th July 2021. There are still seven opening days before the closure of current thematic exhibition, members of the public are encouraged to view the exhibition before it closes down.
GRS Annual Report 2019
2 July 2021
|
|
|
|
The Annual Report 2019 of the Government Records Service has been issued. Please click here to view.
New additions to the archives of the Government Records Service:
Archival records relating to Hong Kong from The National Archives of the United Kingdom and the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library of the United States of America
31 May 2021
|
|
|
|
To enhance its existing archival holdings, the Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service (GRS) has acquired a total of 416 archival records relating to Hong Kong from The National Archives of the United Kingdom (TNA) and 10 records from the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library of the United States of America. These archival records, in the form of digital copies, are put under 11 Hong Kong Manuscript Series (HKMS). They are available for public viewing starting from 2 June 2021. Members of the public are welcome to visit the Search Room of the PRO to inspect these records which have already been included in our online catalogue.
Brief description of the new additions
The records acquired from TNA
These 416 records are selected from nine records series of TNA and they are now grouped into the following records series under the HKMS of PRO, as follows –
HKMS184: Microfilm/Digital Images of Confidential General and Confidential Original Correspondence from the Colonial Office (Selected Records of CO 537);
HKMS186: Microfilm/Digital images of Original Correspondence, Defence Department and successors, Colonial Office and Commonwealth Office (Selected Records of CO 968);
HKMS188: Microfilm/Digital Images of Registered Files from the Far Eastern Department of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (F and FE Series) (Selected Records of FCO 21);
HKMS189: Microfilm/Digital Images of Registered Files from the Hong Kong Departments of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (selected Records of FCO 40);
HKMS195: Digital Images of Correspondence and Papers from the Prime Minister's Office, 1979-1997 (Selected Records of PREM 19);
HKMS196: Digital Images of Minutes and Papers from the Defence and Oversea Policy Committees and Sub-Committees of the Cabinet Office (DO, DOP, OPD and OPDO Series) (Selected Records of CAB 148);
HKMS218: Digital Images of Records of the Cabinet Office: Cabinet Minutes and Papers (CM and CC Series) (Selected Records of CAB128);
HKMS232: Digital Images of Diplomatic Reports and Diplomatic Documents from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Selected Records of FCO 160);
HKMS233: Digital Images of Registered Files from the Information Research Department of the Foreign Office and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (Selected Records of FCO 168)
The newly acquired records covered a wide range of subjects such as the future of Hong Kong, politics and leaders, visits of Chinese and British principal officials, the Sino-British Joint Declaration, the Basic Law, economic and financial development of Hong Kong, nationality and citizenship, political environment and international relations, port and airport development, etc. The covering period of the above records is from late 1930s to mid-1990s.
The records acquired from the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library
These 10 records are selected from two collections of the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and they are now grouped into two corresponding records series under the HKMS of PRO, as follows –
HKMS221: Digital Images of Files from the National Security Council, USA (Selected Records of OA/ID CF00348, OA/ID CF00349, OA/ID CF01313, OA/ID CF01722 and OA/ID CF01734)
HKMS243: Digital Images of Files from the Advance Office, USA (Selected Records of OA/ID 14575)
The newly acquired records mainly touch on the arrangements of the official visit of the then US Vice President George H.W. Bush to the Mainland and Hong Kong in 1985; and the visit of Sir David Wilson, the then Governor of Hong Kong to the US in 1989. The covering period of the above records is from the 1980s to the 1990s.
Records destruction information of Bureaux/Departments - 2020
28 April 2021
|
|
|
|
The records destruction information of bureaux/departments in 2020 is now accessible here.
Latest service arrangements for the Government Records Service
16 February 2021
|
|
|
|
To align with the announcement by the Government to fully resume normal public services, the Government Records Service (GRS) announced today (February 16) that starting from February 18, the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will resume normal opening hours (from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5.45pm and Saturday from 9am to 1pm (excluding public holidays)) to provide services for members of the public who have made a reservation through the Online Catalogue. The quota is 15 users per day, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The Search Room services will continue to be suspended for those who have not made an online reservation for holdings.
The Exhibition Hall of the Hong Kong Public Records Building (Building) will also be reopened starting from February 18. Group visits and public education programmes will continue to be conducted online until further notice.
Members of the public are required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Building, and follow the infection control measures, including temperature checks upon entering the Building and applying hand sanitiser.
Furthermore, to align with the announcement by the Government to use the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app before entering government buildings or offices, starting from March 1, members of the public will be required to scan the "LeaveHomeSafe" QR code or register their names, contact numbers and the date and time of their visits before entering the Building for necessary contact tracing if a confirmed case is found. To allow members of the public to familiarise themselves with the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app, from February 22 onwards, GRS will first remind members of the public to use the "LeaveHomeSafe" mobile app at the entrance of the Building. To fight the epidemic together, we appeal for visitors' co-operation with the instructions given by the staff on site.
For latest updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Latest service arrangements for the Government Records Service
28 January 2021
|
|
|
|
To align with the announcement by the Government to resume some basic public services, the Government Records Service (GRS) announced today (January 28) that starting from February 1, the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 5.45pm until further notice. The Search Room will continue to provide services for members of the public who have made reservations for holdings through the Online Catalogue and the quota will remain at seven users per day, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Services will be limited to:
1. Loan and circulation service for reserved holdings; and
2. Self-service reproduction of holdings.
The above services will continue to be suspended for those who have not made an online reservation for holdings. Members of the public are required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Hong Kong Public Records Building, and follow the infection control measures, including temperature checks upon entering the building and applying hand sanitiser.
While the Exhibition Hall in the Hong Kong Public Records Building will continue to be closed and onsite visits and public education programmes suspended until further notice, members of the public could visit GRS website to know more about PRO’s holdings and services, appreciate the thematic exhibitions and also join the online group visits. The online group visits are free-of-charge. For details, please visit www.grs.gov.hk/pdf/Group_visit_en.pdf.
For latest updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Service arrangements of Public Records Office of Government Records Service
20 January 2021
|
|
|
|
In view of the latest epidemic situation and extension of special work arrangements for government employees, the Government Records Service (GRS) announced today (January 20) that the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will continue to open only on Wednesdays (until further notice) from 9am to 5.45pm to provide services for members of the public who have made reservations for holdings through the Online Catalogue. The quota is seven users, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Services will be limited to:
1. Loan and circulation service for reserved holdings; and
2. Self-service reproduction of holdings.
The above services will be suspended for those who have not made an online reservation for holdings. Members of the public are required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Hong Kong Public Records Building, and follow the infection control measures implemented by the GRS, including temperature checks upon entering the building and applying hand sanitiser.
The PRO has recently launched free-of-charge online group visit enabling members of the public to know more about PRO’s holdings and services, appreciating the thematic exhibitions and visual materials at fingertips. For details, please visit www.grs.gov.hk/pdf/Group_visit_en.pdf.
Meanwhile, the Exhibition Hall in the Hong Kong Public Records Building will be temporarily closed. Onsite visits and public education programmes will continue to be suspended until further notice.
For latest updates, please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice). For enquiries, please email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
Online Group Visit
15 January 2021
|
|
|
|
We are pleased to announce that, from 15 January 2021 onwards, online group visit is provided by the Public Records Office (PRO) of the Government Records Service. The online group visit includes an introduction of PRO holdings, services, thematic exhibition as well as a film show. It usually lasts about 1 hour. Online group visit is free of charge. Details of the arrangements are accessible at this link.
Service arrangements of Public Records Office of Government Records Service
5 January 2021
|
|
|
|
In view of the latest epidemic situation and extension of special work arrangements for government employees, the Government Records Service (GRS) announced today (January 5) that from January 7 to 20, the Search Room of the Public Records Office (PRO) will continue to open only on Wednesdays (January 13 and 20) from 9am to 5.45pm to provide services for members of the public who have made reservations for holdings through the Online Catalogue. The quota is seven users per day, which will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Services will be limited to:
1. Loan and circulation service for reserved holdings; and
2. Self-service reproduction of holdings.
The above services will be suspended for those who have not made an online reservation for holdings. Members of the public are required to wear masks at all times when they are inside the Hong Kong Public Records Building, and follow the infection control measures implemented by the GRS, including temperature checks upon entering the building and applying hand sanitiser.
The Exhibition Hall in the Hong Kong Public Records Building will be temporarily closed. Visits and public education programmes will continue to be suspended until further notice.
The above measures will be implemented until January 20 and will be reviewed then. Please visit the GRS website (www.grs.gov.hk) or the PRO Facebook page (www.facebook.com/grs.publicrecordsoffice) for latest updates. For enquiries, please email proinfo@grs.gov.hk.
