Lilly Hoi Sze Ho

Grad Dip. in Applied Science (Library and Information Management), 2006

In the bustling world of library and information management, Lilly Hoi Sze Ho stands out as a beacon of inspiration and innovation. Her remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming an esteemed leader in the field is not just a testament to her dedication and perseverance but also a reflection of the values instilled by Charles Sturt University.

Lilly's story is one of resilience and adaptability, as she navigated through different cultures and landscapes, shaping her professional path with each unique experience. Graduating with a Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Library and Information Management) from Charles Sturt in 2006, Lilly's connection to the university runs deep, despite her geographical distance. "When I was studying at Charles Sturt University, I was working as an Assistant Librarian in the Hong Kong Public Libraries," she recalls. "The post-graduate course that was delivered by Charles Sturt University was a joint library programme with The HKU School of Professional and Continuing Education (SPACE)."

Reflecting on her academic journey, Lilly enthusiastically praises the flexibility and accessibility of Charles Sturt University's online platform. "I am impressed by the flexible learning opportunities provided by Charles Sturt University," she shares. "I could attend online classes and access electronic course materials anytime, anywhere, and from any computer device."

The online learning platform allowed Lilly to engage with her Australian Charles Sturt professors halfway across the globe. “The conversations with my Australian professors were always inspired. While attending classes at HKU SPACE, I felt that I was strongly connected with the Charles Sturt University main campuses.” It was these meaningful conversations that left a lasting impression on her, igniting her curiosity about the library world beyond Hong Kong and inspiring her to envision a future intertwined with global opportunities.

Her time at Charles Sturt University not only provided her with valuable insights into Australian library practices but also sparked her curiosity about the global library landscape. "I often envisioned what the library world beyond Hong Kong would be like," she reflects. "As it was my first experience with distance learning, I was also eager to connect with my global peers online."

Following her graduation, Lilly's career took her on a whirlwind adventure across continents. From her early days as an editor of international publishers to her role as Assistant Director of Collections and Content, Library and Archives Northern Territory. Lilly's trajectory has been extraordinary.

“My long professional journey began on the day that I accepted an offer of Assistant Managing Director from KEAN University in New Jersey, United States,” she recounts. "Since then, I have worked and lived internationally – relocated from Hong Kong to mainland China, from mainland China to Dubai, from Dubai to Narrabri, and recently from Narrabri to Darwin."

Throughout her career, Lilly has been driven by a thirst for knowledge and a passion for making a difference in the library world. "The best thing about what I do is to make a continuous impact on the library world," she emphasises. "I learnt from international colleagues and brought the best practices to other libraries in other continents."

“My professional qualifications and international working experience not only give me opportunities to experience an adventure of life but also allow me to see different libraries in different parts of the world," Lilly reflects, underscoring the transformative power of global engagement in shaping her perspective and expertise.

What story of a librarian would be complete without a book recommendation?

“A few years ago, I read a book called ‘Your Passport to International Librarianship’ by Cate Carlyle and Dee Winn. It is about a different kind of professional development that involves travelling, experiencing different cultures and new languages, and learning the kinds of interpersonal skills that we could not get sitting behind a desk.”

Relocating across continents and navigating diverse cultural and professional landscapes was not without it’s challenges. "What struggles did I have to overcome? I would say different work ethics, cultural, and living environments in different countries," Lilly reflects. In true Charles Sturt style, Lilly faced these challenges with resilience and adaptability, using the experiences to broaden the depth and breadth of her global view, strengthening her skillset for the next phase of her career.

Throughout her career, Lilly has not only excelled in her roles but has also actively contributed to the advancement of her field on a global scale. “I was educated to think globally and act locally throughout my university life,” a philosophy that fuels Lilly’s advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the library and information management arena. As Chair of the IFLA Acquisition and Collection Development section and Secretary of the Professional Division, she champions initiatives that empower voices from all corners of the globe, ensuring that libraries remain vibrant hubs of learning and exploration for everyone.

In her current role at the Library and Archives NT, Lilly oversees a culturally diverse team and spearheads initiatives to advance digital collections and infrastructure—a testament to her vision and leadership acumen. Despite the complexities of her role, Lilly remains steadfast in her commitment to making a meaningful impact on the library world and fostering collaboration across sectors.

In reflecting on her journey, Lilly is quick to acknowledge the role of her peers and colleagues in shaping her path. From the professors who inspired her during her time at Charles Sturt to the international professional colleagues she met at IFLA, Lilly's journey has been enriched by the wisdom and support of those around her.

To current students aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Lilly offers sage advice: embrace change, stay flexible, and never stop learning.

"Like other disciplines, 'Library and Information Studies' is evolving all the time," she advises. "Current students who want to pursue a career in this field should always keep themselves flexible and open for new changes and have an attitude of lifelong learning at all stages of their career."

As we celebrate the achievements of Lilly Hoi Sze Ho, her journey serves as an inspiration to Charles Sturt alumni and students alike, showcasing the transformative power of global engagement and the limitless opportunities a Charles Sturt education can offer.