The Unique Integration of Libraries and Wet Markets in Hong Kong

Building vertically and combining multiple uses into one facility is the most efficient way to utilize limited land. Land is a precious resource in Hong Kong, and this pragmatic approach has led to the creation of Municipal Service Buildings, where libraries and wet markets often coexist under the same roof.

Introduction to Municipal Service Buildings

These buildings, known as Municipal Service Buildings, are found across Hong Kong and serve a wide range of community needs. One such building in Shek Tong Tsui was a favorite after-school destination for many residents. Located on the ground floor was a bustling wet market offering everything from live seafood and poultry to household items and pirated CDs. Hawker stalls inside the building catered to local tastes, including the best stir-fried eel, made by a grandfather who was a regular vendor.

Library and Community Sports Facilities

Upstairs in the same building, there was a library, a study room, and a sports center. The study room, although rarely used by myself, was essential for students whose homes lacked proper air conditioning or whose families couldn't afford the electricity bill. The sports center offered indoor facilities, including a badminton court and ping pong table, which were immensely popular among students and elderly individuals. There was even a dance studio catering to the more affluent sections of the community.

Government Ownership and Rent Benefits

Many of these Municipal Service Buildings are owned by the government, which allows them to rent stalls at a fraction of the cost of private landlords or real estate agencies. Renting a stall in these buildings can be as little as one-third or even up to one-tenth of the cost of renting elsewhere. For vendors and small businesses, this provided a significant economic advantage.

Community Services and Beyond

The indoor sports centers provided a vital service, especially for those who could not afford gym memberships or had difficulty exercising in the public streets. After-school and after-work, most streets were crowded, narrow, and smoggy, making it challenging to jog or exercise. These indoor facilities, which offered discounts to students and the elderly, served as a lifeline for many residents.

Special Purposes of These Buildings

During the pandemic, these multi-purpose buildings also transformed into vaccination centers, offering convenient access to necessary health services. With limited public spaces in Hong Kong, these buildings served as a well-known and accessible resource for the community.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

While not all Municipal Service Buildings in Hong Kong follow this model, the integration of libraries and wet markets, combined with other community facilities, has been a cornerstone of Hong Kong's urban planning. These buildings have played a crucial role in providing essential services and creating a sense of community for residents, especially those who are less well-off. They continue to be an important part of Hong Kong's vibrant urban landscape and serve as a testament to the city's commitment to efficient land use and community well-being.

As Hong Kong continues to evolve and face new challenges, these buildings remain a symbol of the city's adaptability and ingenuity in maximizing limited resources.