On January 27, 2023, Dr. (Helen) Hong Xu, University Librarian of Duke Kunshan University, visited Chiang Mai University Library. Ms. Orapan Kankonsue, Deputy Director of the Library, and Ms. Chansa Seedaeng, Head of Information Resources Service Section, welcomed and guided Dr. Xu on her visit.
The newly innovated Library embraces both tradition and innovation with its card catalog wall and computer labs sponsored by large IT corporations in Thailand. With about 120 library staff, the main library offers student-centered services and facilities as a learning and innovation hub. More space including outdoor and roof gardens will be open to users later.
“The card catalog wall reminds users of the old days of libraries, and innovated facilities like the sleeping cars represent the humanistic care for library users,” said Dr. Xu.
Founded in 1964, Chiang Mai University is a leading public research university in Thailand. The Library houses about 1,000,000 volumes of print collections in main library and 17 branches, mainly in Thai language, according to Ms. Seedaeng.
The Lanna Heritage Special Collection, featuring archived documents and relics of the Lanna Kingdom, an ancient state located in northern Thailand, is a highlight of the Library’s collections in both physical and digital formats.
Photo credit: Mr.Thianrawich Boonma and Dr. (Helen) Hong Xu
