Newsletter No. 45

No.45 August 1993 CUHK Newsletter the newly formed campus of The Chinese University meant coping with and compromising on aspects taken for granted in a more established environment. The bookshop was certainly not nearby. Although the lack of this facility was greatly felt, the availability of interesting courses on campus made up in part for its absence. I regret not having had more time then, in my juggle of home, family and career, to partake of a greater meal selected from the menu of pleasures that had been spread before me. Adult life continues to pass imperceptibly into middle age. What do I do when I wander through strange campuses in unfamiliar cities and places? I make a beeline for the bookstore. Much can be discovered about the history, the student activities, and the character of a university from the items that can be found there. In some universities the 'bookstore' has grown into a huge commercial concern, a supermarket for students: one floor is devoted to course-related books, another to books for pleasure and general interest, yet another to souvenirs, or college insignia-covered clothing. Perhaps there is a snack bar attached too. But a bookshop, be it on-campus or nearby, be it large or small, is an invariant part of any university. I inspect the paraphernalia that students may acquire or aspire to buy. Some items are very creatively marketed and tempt me to spend. Books can be tantalizing, read on the spot, or chewed slowly in small bites. I compare the many approaches there are to publications of photo studies of campus life and history. These latter books are public relations efforts that create an image of the institution. I f one of these institutions had been my alma mater, I would have bought a copy to remind myself of bygone times. It was as a result of these many probing and prying expeditions that the thought came to me to suggest a photo record of our own beautiful campus at The Chinese University. This is the 30th anniversary of our University. It seems timely for such a publication. The number of graduates increases annually and when CU alumni reach my mellow years how faded their memories w i ll be of those care-free student days. It would be a book to cherish as we pore over it on private sentimental journeys. 'We didn't do that... I recognize the maze... When did they build... Gosh, he's old... Isn't that Prof. Hu... The Mall is... I was here for... The azalea where you kissed...!' This is a book to give to friends to show and tell, a book for alumni to leaf through with their families as they encourage a new generation to study at their alma mater, a book to bestow on our distinguished visitors from overseas as a visual reminder of our beautiful campus. Through its pages we can all show the pride we feel for our University. Mr . T. L . Tsim, Director of The Chinese University Press, was very receptive to the idea and marshalled support for the project. With input from many talented persons it has taken on a distinct character that is the essence of the University. Entitled The Chinese University of Hong Kong: A Celebration, the book w i ll surely sell itself. Be sure to buy your copy before the first edition runs out! 9