A Blessing Ceremony to celebrate the reopening of Lihue Public Library will be conducted on Thursday, October 24 at 9 a.m. for invited legislators, local officials, and the public following the completion of an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Renovation Project.
Kumu Hula Sabra Kauka from Island School will conduct the blessing and Halau Na Pua o Kamaile will present a hula performance as part of the ceremony. Email carolyn.larson@librarieshawaii.org as soon as possible if a sign language interpreter or other special accommodation is needed. The Library will re-open following the ceremony at about 10 a.m. and resume its regular public service schedule.
The ADA renovation project for the island's central library included the replacement of an outdated air-conditioning system, replacement of picture windows, installation of new carpeting and upgrades to interior lighting. An interim Library in the Conference Room offered limited library services and the book drop remained open for the duration of the project.
"We have been looking forward to this renovation project for a long time and are excited to see it completed," said Branch Manager Carolyn Larson. "The library did not gain additional space, but it will have a more stable environment with improved climate control, which will better protect our collections and make it more comfortable for our patrons. The upgrades to accessibility will also help us better serve Kauai's general public."
"We would like to thank our legislators for providing funding to renovate our Lihue Public Library to ensure health and safety priorities are met for our patrons and staff," said State Librarian Richard Burns. "We would also like to thank our patrons for their patience and understanding during the Library's temporary closure."
The present Lihue Public Library building located at 4344 Hardy Street was dedicated 44 years ago on August 23, 1969. The Library's public service schedule is: Monday, Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday – Closed. For information about the Library's programs and services, please call 241-3222 when it reopens.