Back in early February 2026 on my way out of the library, I took the time to check out the exhibit on display in the lobby area. Taking a closer look, the images portrayed the Filipinos' intense displeasure of the Marcos regime, by organizing the "People Power Revolution", which eventually exiled Ferdinand an Imelda to Hawaii because of their close friendship with then-Governor George Ariyoshi. Some local Fiipinos weren't exactly thrilled to have him here either. PS If I got anything wrong here, please comment below. Mahalo. read more

See all

The State Library is just east of Iolani Palace and is the central library for the Hawaii State Public Library system. Hawaii is the only state with a state library system. The Greco-Roman State Library building was funded by a $100,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie. The building was designed by Mrs. Carnegie's brother, Henry Whitfield. The building has copper doors and a green tiled roof. The 20,000 square foot building opened in 1913 and housed historical Hawaiian collections in addition to other literature. The building was expanded in 1927 with design by Charles Dicky to add space and enclose the courtyard. The central courtyard with gardens in the building provides a beautiful area to read and enjoy the tropical weather. Several pieces of Hawaiian art hang in the foyer and on other library walls. The collection is divided into Children's, Young Adult and Adult sections. I found books unique to Hawaiian culture. Some stack areas are closed off for some reason and require assistance to access. The staff is aloha friendly and eager to assist. They eagerly provided me with information about the library. A unique feature of the library is the presence of a US Passport office. Visitors can apply for and renew passports here. While functional, the library could use some restoration and refresh. The building was named to the National Register in 1982. There is limited metered street parking in front of the building. I did not see a dedicated lot, but there may be one. read more

See all

The main library is the best library of them all in the state because it has the most reference and circulating books in Hawaii. Im here to get books for my PHD program. The 4 stars is for the only Catalog computer being out-of-order. Luckily, I can find references / books since I know this library at the PHD level. While doing my bachelor's degree studies, all library functions were working. There are security guards on every floor which made me feel safe. Get your new library cards....the red one is old. Get a renewal or new card at the information desk area. I took pictures of the LGBTQ history time line at the library front area. There are very interesting displays when available. Clean bathrooms on almost every floor. Turn off cell phones when entering the library. read more

See all

This review is based solely on the passport experience, located on the 2nd floor of the library. When you first walk in through the main doors, turn right and go up that staircase (or elevator), follow the signs. Walk past the arts, music, recreation section o, go through the outdoor hallway, into the glass doors and pull a number ticket from the receptionist. There are 4-5 individual work stations. By walk-in only, no appointments, services available on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays from 9a-1p. On this Saturday, I'm noticing about 10-15 min services per person. We were number 15 waiting in line by the time it was 9:30am. And we got serviced at 11am. There's a QR code that you can pay your application fee with, via credit card, debit card, PayPal or Venmo. There is also a $35 execution fee on top of that, paid separately to the facility. This fee is by cash or check only. All in all, make sure you have all your documents in check before you go. It's not a difficult process, it just takes a little time and patience. read more

Hawaii State Library - Libraries Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Brought my daughter here for the story-time on a Saturday morning. There was no free parking but there were plenty of metered parking spots on S King St, and I believe on the side street as well. The library was beautiful and well kept. The staff who was in charge of the story time did a great job! All the kids had a great time! Will definitely bring my daughter back for story telling or just to read books. My only complaint was there were many homeless people inside and outside of the library. More than half of the tables at the courtyard were occupied by them. And the smell of weed was everywhere... read more

This library has been around for years..generations even! There are stacks and stacks of paper books lining the shelves and it's wonderful to have the touch and feel of books even with the advent of e-readers. The children's area is nice with signs indicating the area is for families to sit and read with their children. It's nice there are other services available such as passport renewals or new passports for kids. There are so many resources and reference materials all in paper and book form. The building itself is historic with lotsa areas to read. The interior is very cool and library staff quite devoted to the preservation of the library. The one drawback is the houseless sleeping in the aisles or bathing in the restrooms. Makes for awkward explanations for the little ones. read more

Hawaii State Library - Libraries Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

A beautiful, historical library in the civic center of Honolulu that has unfortunately fallen into disrepair. Half the library is always closed off due to leaks and other damages that's been neglected for decades, and it has for years also been a place for homeless individuals to hang out at all day. But if you can look past these things, the library really is trying. They've recently done a rebranding refresh with all new library cards, they have a quite robust digital ebook library for members, and the physical book catalogue is large as well. One of the conveniences I enjoy of a statewide system is that when you check out a book at one library, you can return it to any other library in the system. Makes it super convenient to check out a book at this library, but then return books to the library way closer to my home when I'm finished. Hawaii State Library System is definitely one of the better ones, and hopefully this particular iconic location will get the love it deserves. read more

See all

Quality/Quantity - Good size library. Nice "park" with bench seating in front. Nice place to take a break. Plenty of indoor and outdoor courtyard seating. Free wifi. Clean bathrooms. Etc. Atmosphere - See above. Open 6 days a week from 9am or 11am to 4pm or 7pm, closed Sundays. See picture for specific hours.Yelp hours differ. Events, see website. Service - Self service. You can get your government documents here also - Passports, Patent and Trademark forms, State and Federal tax forms, etc. They also have Bookmobiles, mobile libraries. Book clubs. Reading programs. EBooks, audio books. Price - Free. Owner Comment - Congrats on all your success since 1879 with your 51 HI libraries. 1959 - Consolidated and created the statewide libraries system. read more

See all

We found this library while walking to the Royal Palace. Being that it was previously a royal residence, the entrance is impressively grand and bright. Walking through the areas open to the public was interesting to us as we tried to imagine what each room used to be. We then spent most of our time looking at books in the Art section. My husband thought they had quite a nice collection. The reading areas surrounding the courtyard were very nice, but it was kind of humid during our visit, so we stayed inside where it was nicely air conditioned. I love libraries. Finding this converted historical building was a happy bonus during this visit to Hawaii. read more

See all

Talking and eating inside of the library... It seems wrong, but we did it during the Friends of the Library of Hawai'i Annual Meeting on 2-22-23, Wednesday, at 5pm. It was one of the regular days for the Hawaii State Library to be closed. The staff set up tables (with tablecloths) and chairs for guests in the lobby. We made our own name tags at the reception table where the Legislators, Board Members, and other honorees (such as Volunteers of the Year) received an orchid lei. The meeting ran smoothly in the clean, air conditioned environment. We were allowed to roam around and use the convenient restroom. Refreshments were catered by 1132 Cafe and Liliha Bakery. We parked on the street in metered stalls (free after 6pm). I don't know how I got on the guest list, but I do appreciate all of the hard work that the staff accomplished through the pandemic. Besides obtaining a permanent warehouse, a permanent bookstore, and a couple of large grants, an online bookstore, Links to Literacy Golf Tournament, and an online auction for antique books were set up. This event reminded me of my childhood when mom used to bring me and my three sisters here every weekend. I'd borrow a stack of books, finish reading all of them, and look forward to our next visit! I need to return soon and explore the improvements to this historic building which has been around since 1911! Thanks to the Library of Hawai'i for 110 years of excellent service at 51 public libraries across our Hawaiian Islands! read more

See all

This place is over a hundred years old, and it's got this quirky layout because it used to be a royal residence. It's a bit of a maze, but that's the charm! The air conditioning plus the smell of books is my ideal climate. If you're not a fan of the cold AC, there's an outdoor courtyard in the center of the library, perfect for those who enjoy the warmth while they read or work. They also have tons of computers, free wifi, and printing available. The whole place is spotless, and the staff? Super friendly and always up for helping you find whatever you need. Plus, it's the only place around where you can just walk in and get your passport sorted - no appointments needed! A heads-up about parking: it's downtown and not easy. I believe there are some public parking spots available in the garage off of Miller street. read more

I love this place! I borrow books from them to be able to get chronological ones in series so I can read uninterrupted through the whole thing in the right order. Praise God! read more

Fast and easy to renew passport. Very friendly staff. I needed to get a new picture. He called FedEx to make sure before I walked over there. read more

I needed to do some research, and came here to peruse books on the history of the monarchy. They have a great selection of books and I love the different sections of the building. The last time I was here, which was years ago, the AC was not very good. But now the building is really cool and comfortable to work in. The staff is really nice! I even got some references to help with my research, just in passing conversation. I also love the local art work that is on display. Looking forward to stopping back in! Mahalo Hawaii State Library! read more

See all

This place is lit when you can make it on the hours that they are open. As a first time visitor being a resident for over 3 years, I was excited to visit a new place that's been on my list. Parking can be found on the side while driving East Bound on King St. the entrance is a little opening right on Likelike Street before Punchbowl Street. Also this place is awesome bc I don't have access to AC 24/7 so this is another reason that motivates me to come out here :) read more

Hawaii State Library - Libraries Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This location has a great selection of books, easy to request from other locations, love the kids area to encourage young readers and also processes passports on select days. There is an after hours book drop off located on the outside to the left of side of the library. There is no sign at the entrance to direct you where the after hours drop off box is located. read more

Hawaii State Library - After Hours Book Drop Off at Hawaii State Library located to the left side of the library entrance - Libraries Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

This is the most beautiful library in Hawaii. The external and internal architecture is gorgeous. All staff are informative and helpful. Strict rules on no sleeping...haha. There are lots of homeless in the area and while they might be inside the library they cannot sleep. I've had a library card for decades and use both the online reading and hard book reading. I feel so smart when I'm near or in this building. read more

If you trying to get a passport just beware because they helped everyone but us. I asked about the number system they had going on because of the "first come, first serve" basis and the lady wasn't too helpful she just brushed us off and said "sorry, I'm too busy". They helped a lady after us and left us hanging. So we waited on the tables only for them to say "sorry we're closed"! If they weren't going to help they should've said something instead of wasting our time. I suggest going to a different location especially if you kanaka they don't seem to care. If you not, then you can expect to be helped right away. Ridiculous, step it up. You need workers thats not prejudice. read more

Trips to the Hawaii State Library as a child fostered a lifelong appreciation for the written word. My Dad would bring us here so he could catch up with various periodicals, while my sister and I would head to the Edna Allyn Room. He'd park himself on the Adirondack-style chairs, which lined the open courtyard. Fortunately, the library can now be enjoyed in air conditioned comfort. The library card is free. Go online to view e-books and to reserve library materials, which can be held for pick up at your designated location. Props to the dedicated, attentive, and patient library staff who provide stellar service. I continue to enjoy heading to the Hawaii State Library and borrowing books. It provides a great break from the workday. read more

See all

Love this library! It's huge and air conditioned. Lately there have been a lot of homeless camped outside and in the bathroom--a deranged lady yelled at me and my daughter in when we tried to use it, but I'm pretty sure she just had mental issues. Other than that it's a wonderful library and the staff are really friendly and helpful. My son is obsessed with the Titanic right now so he asked the librarian if they had any books on it for kids and she found a bunch for him. He was stoked! read more

In the historic area of Honolulu filled with gorgeous government buildings, one standout is the Hawaii State Library. The large verdant lawn and huge old shade trees, make this building welcoming. It's beautiful to look at from far away. With the promise of quiet reading areas, I had been eager to find a time to simply sit and use my local library. The library is kept clean, organized, and brightly lit. There are indoor and outdoor seating areas, all shielded from the sun and rain. Maps abound to help point out exactly what you're looking for. I love the old metal stacks and historic interior of the building. Unfortunately this place has some serious drawbacks caused not by the library itself, but by the social situation that's a common fixture of city - homelessness. I finally had that opportunity to visit the building for a few hours due to flexible hours around the holidays. I headed for the restrooms first thing and realized what issues they have. It was worse than a gas station restroom with angry signs everywhere about not shaving, showering, or changing in the restrooms. That didn't stop people from doing so inside. I pity the employees and custodians of the building; this is more of a daily homeless shelter than a place for public use. I found a nice table in the courtyard and sat for a while. There was a constant and consistent parade of homeless men with large suitcases going in and out to use the restrooms. It's truly unbelievable how bad it is here. Electrical outlets were all claimed, disgusting behavior was everywhere. Maybe tighter rules about 'no luggage or large bags' would stop some of this abuse? I'm sure there are people asking these questions. The library offers many other services including internet, passport, and lending items. Hours narrow and do not cater to people who work 9-5. I wish I had more time to spend here, but honestly don't know if I would until things improve. If you're a tourist visiting, it's worth your time to walk around the building. read more

Hawaii State Library - Libraries Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

Its big with good resources but the biggest downfall is limited parking (metered). Theres a huuge grassy area in the front that should be made into a parking lot. I find it very odd that its the main branch but no dedicated parking. I havent been there for over ten years because of this reason. I prefer to go to other libraries that have parking read more

Services offered: -PASSPORT! -borrow books of course -sign up for a library card -bus pass? -free seats around to study or read a book It seriously stinks in here. A musty nasty smell with homeless lurking around. I actually passed one with urine on his clothes, though he was kind enough to let us finish walking up to his floor before he made his way down. I couldn't bare the smell so I zipped in and out of there. The staircase needs to be power washed! Heck, throw in a ton of scented wall flowers as well. Security guard seemed non-verbal..Mid staircase floor, floor 1.5 or 2? Haha if you're over 5'3, then boy you will have to crouch to look through those bookcases.. The lights literally grazed my head. Passport services are located top floor towards the right. Take the right side staircase all the way up and walk straight back. Save some ink at home, they have applications printed. Sweet man and lady working today were helpful in answering all of our questions. Today was about a 45-1hour wait, it was actually busy.. -Parents applying for their kids, both parents must be there in person to sign their applications or if one can't show up, get a notary to sign. -Get your passport photos prior to coming in read more

See all

Public libraries have been one of my favorite places to spend my free time since I was a child. It's where I have some of my earliest memories of learning to read my first words and it's where I developed a lifelong love of reading. That is why I really wish Hawaii had better public libraries. This is the main branch located downtown next to Iolani Palace. It's a beautiful building with so much potential to be a central place of learning for the citizens of Honolulu. I work just a five minute walk from the library, so why do I rarely find myself here? The first problem is that it closes way too early on most days at 5:00 PM. That's when most people get off from work or school! The library is only open until 8:00 PM on Thursdays. The second major problem is the lack of outlets and weak WiFi throughout the entire library. I went there today to do work on my laptop and it is impossible to connect to WiFi on the second level of the library. The only area where I found a connection was near the front entrance where it is loud and there are absolutely no study carrels or tables. I had to leave to go to a café because it was necessary for me to connect to WiFi to complete my work. The final problem which I believe is largely out of the library's control are the numerous vagrants who spend their day here. I realize that this is a problem for libraries in every city with a homeless problem. There is free internet, washrooms, and a nice air conditioned place to stay for the entire day away from the heat or rain. The homeless have every right to access a public library's facilities, but it becomes a problem when they are taking over tables for the entire day and their stench becomes a nuisance for everyone else. There are even signs asking people not to shave, disrobe in the common areas, or bathe that results in extensive puddling on the floor. Come on, guys. If there are people regularly doing this at the library, they need to be permanently banned. As for books, there is a wide selection, so I do recommend coming to do this branch if you are searching for a book that cannot be found at the smaller neighborhood branches. There are also regular programs and book clubs. read more

See all

The Hawaii State library on King Street has facilitated my book requests by providing "on line" book holds. Quite simple, once the book is available, an email is sent. Very efficient, and quite friendly staff, my very favorite being Melda, who is at the check out counter a couple days a week. My tax dollars at work, and I happen to be very happy. read more

"Reading is important, because if you can read, you can learn anything about everything and everything about anything." - Tomie dePaola During my childhood, I always would look forward to every weekend when my mother would bring my sisters and me to this library. We'd come here to return books that we had borrowed from the week before and borrow a few more to last us to the next weekend. We enjoyed reading so much that it never mattered which type (fiction or non-fiction) or writing genre we read to satisfy our inquisitive and adventurous spirits. We'd spend hours in this library starting with exploring the book classification card catalog (arranged by the Dewey Decimal System) then head up to the section to look for the book(s) of our choice. On the way up or out to the one of the new library wings, we often marveled at the architectural details and even felt lucky to be exploring a historic Hawaiian building (formerly named "Carnegie library"). The library wasn't air conditioned back then as they'd open the windows to allow the cool breezes to flow through the buildings and there was natural sunlight coming through the skylights and incandescent lightbulbs that made reading more comfortable. Over the years, our visits diminished due to our access to other libraries, work, travel and the internet. However, since we recently moved nearby, we have returned to visit and use the library services. We have come in to listen to community meetings or participate in some cultural events here. Our recent visits were to attend a book signing and to watch a Dwayne Johnson "The Rock" movie. There have been obvious upgrades from print to digital formats but I'm still "old school" to have a library card to borrow books. The feel of a hard cover book and being able to turn the pages rather than swipe across an e-reader screen makes my day. The librarians are helpful and friendly as they'll approach (unobtrusively) you rather than you having to look for them. Reading has opened my eyes to the World (current events, cuisines, culture, history, art and literature) and I have been fortunate to have traveled to all of the places that I've read about and more. There are still so many places and cultures that I'd like to go to and experience in person. But, for now, I am content with learning through reading and letting my imagination take me there. read more

See all

Save money!! Borrow books! And support your local library :) aside from the interesting characters that surrounding this area at times, I love coming to this library (it's okay, so far none have bothered me ever). There's a security guard who sits in front when you enter the library, and for the most part it's nice and roomy. I love browsing through the different sections and borrowing books from here. I see a lot of people of different ages coming to use the resources and computers here as well. As far as parking goes, I usually do street metered parking which there is usually a good amount of. It only gets tricky if you don't find a stall and have to drive around because it's one way. Otherwise, love this library. read more

This was a hard place for me to find, I kept passing the driveway into the lot and ended up going on a 4 mile trek of one way streets to get back. There are metered street parking spots, but if they are full, pull into the unmarked driveway leading to the palace and park in one of the metered stalls in the parking lot. The library is a short walk to the right of the palace, as you face it. I needed to come here because there is a passport office on the second floor. Ok, once I got there, everyone was so helpful. The passport office is only open until 1pm, I didn't get there until 12:20, but they told me they could help me and to fill out an application. As soon as I filled out my application, my number was called (remember to get a number!) and the whole process took about 10 minutes. You'll need a current Hawaii ID, proof of citizenship (I used my birth certificate), and bring your check book because the fee is 110.00 to the US Department of State and 35.00 to Director of Finance. On my way out, I walked right by the music section and found a fabulous collection of musical scores. I browsed for a while, then went downstairs and got my library card. I now have a copy of Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1 and I'm having a blast trying to learn the first few measures (I'm a violinist but know a little piano). So far I'm butchering this piece, but I'm having a blast! read more

Hawaii State Library - Park in this parking lot, the library is about 100 feet east. - Libraries Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

This is for passport renewal. Pre covid it was first come first served. You'd have to get there before it opens and once it opens, u rushed upstairs and get a number. Now with covid, it's by appt only. I called I think either late June or early July and I got an October appt (10/16). I asked the nice gentlemen for a Saturday appt. and I got 10/16/21 @11:30 am. He was really nice and gave instructions on what I need to bring, etc. We got there at 11 and there were 2 families ahead of us. It is now done outside at the entrance of the library. She called us at exactly 11 am and it took 20 minutes for the entire process. I would say, I really like this process. There's only one worker and she was really nice. Overall, great service with friendly library staff. read more

See all

I haven't stepped foot in here in years. I prefer to go to other libraries since they have parking. This library is pretty much metered street parking. The meters fronting the library is 10 minutes for every quarter. With that being said, this is the nicest and biggest library on the island. My son likes to look at the books and comics. They also have computers that people can use. I didn't use them so I'm not sure if there is a charge. There are tables where people were studying. It was so quite you could hear a pin drop. One of the passport offices is also located here. $110 for adults and $80 for kids, with a $25 service fee for each application turned in. read more

See all

The oldest and largest library on Oahu. It's over 100 years old and houses the largest collection of books and media. When you go inside, you'll instantly feel the cold AC, which is great. The library appears and is very confusing as each section feels like it's separated into rooms and even corridors that filled with shelves and shelves of books from high to low. The reason for that is because this building was previously used as a home during the monarchy times before it transitioned into a library. You'll definitely need a roadmap to get to where you need to go. There's a lot of tables located all around the library. There's also a courtyard in the center of the library with tables if you enjoy the warmth. There's several computer stations if you need to use the internet and print documents. The entire library is clean and very well organized. The staff here are very friendly and helpful. The downfalls of this library is the abundance of homeless individuals that hang out in front of the library and those who sit inside the library only to sleep on the tables. Don't mind them and they won't mind you. Another thing is the lack of a free parking lot. I know being located in Downtown that's the deal. There are metered parking stalls on King and Punchbowl, and you can park in the also metered parking lot at Iolani Palace. You turn into the driveway right before Punchbowl and the library, and turn left into the gate. Another solution is to go on Thursday's when it's open till 8pm, and you can park free after 6pm (I believe). At this library, this is the ONLY walk-in passport facility, so you don't need to make an appointment, but it's only done between 10am to 1pm in weekdays and 9am to 12pm on Saturday. Overall, this is an excellent library filled with books and everything you're looking for, and a friendly staff. There are many tables around and it is always quiet and very cool. read more

The Hawaii State Library is by far the best public library in Hawaii. It is a stately library to be sure with the largest collection of books that I have found on Oahu. Haven't really roamed the UH libraries, but I think it would be near the top at the very least. The complex is three stories and consists of two connected buildings. Two floors that are above ground and a basement floor. In the middle is a beautiful courtyard that makes for a nice semi-outdoor space to study and/or read with sunshine beaming down. This library was the place I would go when I was in school to find books to read and refer to when working on papers and projects. Hence I spent a good amount of time here. Took a short visit here while visiting Honolulu last week. It is mostly the same. Everything is where I remembered. Though this library has adjusted with the times. They now offer free wi-fi here. Unfortunately, as an ex-kamaaina I was out of luck. Wi-fi use is limited to library card users only. Getting your first library card here is free if you are local, but there is a fee if you are not. I do still have my library card, but it has long since expired. I wish they would just make wi-fi use open to all like the libraries here in Seattle. For that reason, I knock off a star. Despite the wi-fi issue, I still think this place is great. If you are looking for reading material, this is the place to go on Oahu. read more

I just wanted to give feedback about their pick up service since the library is closed to the public for indoor seating. Today, at approximately 11:15am, I went to pick up my books. I read online that I didn't need an appointment, but it was an option. I decided to just go in early and pick up my books since I knew there wouldn't be a line at 11:15am. There were two women at the checkout table, one was nice, but the other needs a supervisor to speak to her about her etiquette. This woman (sorry, I don't know her name) asked if I had an appointment. I stated no and asked if I needed one, because who knows, maybe the website wasn't up-to-date? She looked upset, didn't say anything, grabbed my library card and went to get my books. Her coworker (the nicer one) explained to me that I didn't need one but that it made the process faster. Then, the rude librarian or assistant, came back and threw my books at me. She didn't say a word. Seriously? Mad because you had to get up and go inside the library? Wow...calm down lady! By the way, parking is not free it is metered parking. The earlier you go, the more available parking you'll find. Still, be careful of these librarians... read more

My daughter loves this place. Staff members have been very helpful for our family. Thank you!

I finally decided to get up off the couch and go get a library card. Since moving downtown, I've been exploring all of the old buildings as well as the restaurants nearby. I quickly learned from one of the very knowledgeable librarians that this library is over 100 years old. It's a beautiful library and I found it very easy to get a library card and to search for books. After about one minute of filling out a form to get a library card, a librarian at the front desk helps you get a card. On top of getting the card itself explain to you the procedures on how to look up books, use the computers, and even how to return your books and/or movies. I found the library/woman that helped me surprisingly gun-ho about the whole thing. She made me excited to rent books. Recommend not only coming to this library because it's gorgeous, they have a huge selection of books/audio box/DVDs/etc., and for the ambience, because people who work in it are friendly. read more

See all

Per employee at library check out, there is a passport office on the 2nd floor. The employee at the office only processes new passport applications not renewal. Renewals can only be done through the mail by mailing old passport with application and payment. read more

This review is for their Passport area only. I came here on black Friday, but called the library ahead of time to ensure that they were open. They were and they directed my call to them. It was 9:00 am so I didn't expect them to be open till 10:00 am. However the lady that I spoke with told me to come down already and they were taking customers. When we were seen I found out that they like to open earlier because there are only a couple workers in that department and are unable to pull from other areas. They also said that they don't want people waiting too long to get their passport! 2 thumbs up for these people!!!! Great customer service!!! Alright so when you enter the library you must go to the second floor. If you're ok taking the stairs it is located on the right, back corner of the library. Once you're on the right side of the courtyard and you enter the next set of doors, their office area is right there. You will take a number which is really the type of raffle tickets you receive at lotteries. Anyways you wait till they call the last 2 numbers on the ticket. There's a waiting area around the corner with ample seating. Even the bathrooms are right there. We were second in line and were called within about 15 minutes. Once in I made sure that I had all my documentation ahead of time ready. We were literally done within 5 minutes. They also have a stamp for your check, so you don't need to write who it is for, just the amount. Note that they do not do passport photos at this location, so you must have one with the rest of your documents. You also need 2 checks. I would suggest coming before 10. Once it hit 10 there was a whole bunch of people coming in and waiting!! read more

This review might not just be a view from the outside as a customer I call at the library, you'll get to know the "internal" parts. My first job ever at age 16... was here.... Hawaii State Library... NO JUDGE! I was a nerd... I admit it! I believed in working in AC rather than being at mcdonald's making sandwiches and taking others crap... I can't do it... I blow up at the customer... Be happy I didn't work in the food industry... (No offend to you who did work there... it's a hard life.. my brother worked at mickey d's but that's another story) During high school... we all had that super super smart friend, the one who took AP calculus and College courses, she started early. She was the one who got the job here first... then she dragged me along and I dragged my best friend along.. We all got hired in different departments. The department I was in my supervisor had OCD... it was a requirement to make sure shelfs books were neatly flushed to the shelf.. This is where my OCD began.... I sat in the section reading chicken soup for the soul! Remember this books? We had those in our section.. I've always wondered how the book drop thing worked.... The library actually has a basement where all your books get dropped and then sorted by the department from the barcode and sections on the label. First time ever I rode the hidden old fashion sliding elevators to the basement and to the hidden 3rd floor for the lunch room. Took my library experience to a whole new level. When I come to library to borrow books and music cds it let me look at things differently. I know how they make the books BEEP! This library had so much tables in each section/department to do research, projects and while you're young with no money this was the best hangout..... then starbucks came into my life and the internet developed.. I haven't been back here in years..... read more

Emily from the passport office was fantastic. I had quite a lot of questions as I wasn't to familiar with the process and she was extremely patient and helpful in explaining the process. T read more

It's like a Third World country, homeless people on drugs outnumber the library patrons. They sleep by the electrical outlets while charging their cell phones and bathe in the library restrooms - I rarely ever feel unsafe, especially in Hawaii, but I was on en garde. Went today to get my passport renewed and an employee, an oafish woman in a frumpy sweatshirt and jeans (looking like one of the itinerants rather than an employee), questioned me about my reading a display for upcoming library cultural events near their front desk on the second floor. I work at a historical museum, so these things particularly interest me. Had my ticket in hand and told her I'm up next in line to get my passport renewed, and could tell this bothered her for some reason so I asked, "Am I bothering you by looking at the posters?" If you don't want patrons looking at them, don't have any displayed or display them elsewhere. A man was yelling out obscenities downstairs at the top of his lungs and people loitering everywhere, but I, well-mannered and minding my business, am the one being given attitude by this slovenly woman for looking at upcoming cultural events? For chrissakes, did I enter the twilight zone or a scene from the movie Idiocracy? She made some excuse that didn't make any sense for her rude behavior. Great job further promulgating the reputation in Hawaii that State workers are stupid, lazy, and unfireable. A nice gentleman helped with my passport renewal and it went smoothly and quickly. Besides the one employee overdue for an attitude check, the other staff seemed nice. I felt empathy for them as they have to constantly monitor the mentally unstable homeless visitors, and I saw a bunch on their walkie talkies doing so. With all the people drugged out it's an unsafe environment for both patrons and employees. It's an eye-opening experience, this is our State's most beautiful library and I have wonderful memories going there growing up, its in such a sad state now. read more