Koloa public and school library celebrates 50th anniversary

KOLOA (HawaiiNewsNow) – Kauaʻi’s only public and school library celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking five decades as a community gathering place for reading, learning and connection.

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The celebration included lei poʻo demonstrations, button and bag charm crafts, printing press book journals, face painting and a Lego lounge.

Remarks were given by State Librarian Stacey A. Aldrich, Branch Manager Stephanie Ibbs and Rep. Dee Morikawa.

“A library is one of the few places where everyone belongs,” Aldrich said. “For 50 years, Kōloa Public and School Library has welcomed children discovering their first stories, students of all ages pursuing their education, and neighbors seeking connections. We’re proud to carry this legacy into the next 50 years and beyond.”

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Aldrine Guerrero provided live music.

The Kōloa Public and School Library opened in June 1976, designed by Wilson Okamoto and Associates to serve the Kōloa Elementary and communities of Kōloa, Poʻipū, Kukui‘ula, ʻŌmaʻo, Lāwaʻi and Kalāheo.

The library’s public service hours are:

The state said the library currently houses 28,423 titles with access to computers, broadband connectivity and digital resources.

“Our 50th Anniversary is a celebration of the people of Kōloa and the surrounding communities who use the library to read, learn something new, and connect with their community,” Ibbs said.

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