Inspiring Journeys in Library & Information Management: An Alumni Story by Wallace Fan

Wallace Fan
Library Officer, Hong Kong Metropolitan University
Master of Information Studies (2021-2023)
Advanced Certificate in Library and Information Management* (2020–2021)
* Intermediate Award of Higher Diploma in Library and Information Management

A few years ago, I found myself at a bit of a crossroads. I already had a postgraduate degree, but like many people during the pandemic, I wasn’t quite sure what to do next. That’s when I came across the Higher Diploma in Library and Information Management (HDLIM). I didn’t have much background in libraries at the time, but something about the programme sparked my interest — it felt like a door I hadn’t noticed before.

Enrolling in HDLIM turned out to be a great decision. It gave me a solid grounding in the field and, more importantly, practical experience through coursework and internships. That’s where I discovered my interest in technical services — something I might never have considered otherwise. Those hands-on experiences really helped me see where I fit in the profession and gave me the confidence to keep going.

After finishing the diploma, I had the opportunity to intern in Jingdezhen, China. I was given responsibility for managing an entire museum collection — a big task, but also a huge vote of confidence from the museum owner. It was challenging, but I learned so much and it made me feel like I was truly on the right path.

That experience pushed me to pursue the Master of Information Studies (MIS). The programme deepened my understanding of the field and broadened how I thought about it. I remember one standout moment during my studies in 2022 — I had to lead a stock-taking project at work, dealing with all kinds of formats, including historically important items. The timing was perfect: I was learning about metadata and collection management in class and could immediately apply those concepts on the job. It really brought everything together.

One thing I especially appreciated about the MIS programme was the open, discussion-based environment. It wasn’t just about lectures — we were encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and learn from each other. I still remember a post from a classmate in the US who worked in a private club library with a map collection. He shared a tricky cataloguing issue on the course forum, and our lecturer responded with thoughtful, practical advice. That kind of real-world exchange made the learning feel alive and relevant.

Looking back, both HDLIM and MIS played a big role in shaping my journey. They gave me not only the academic tools I needed, but also the space to grow both professionally and personally. If you’re feeling unsure of your next step — like I was — I’d say these programmes are worth exploring. They opened new possibilities for me, and they might do the same for you.