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    Hawaii State Library

    3.8 (146 reviews)
    Open 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Hawaii State Library Photos

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    Jillian T.

    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.

    Candace F.

    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.

    New library cards (2025)
    Dylan Keith W.

    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.

    10/3/23 Business hours
    Lee D.

    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.

    Rochelle M.

    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.

    Memorabilia
    Nadine C.

    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!

    Mikey H.

    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!

    Mabelle T.

    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 :)

    After Hours Book Drop Off at Hawaii State Library located to the left side of the library entrance

    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.

    Current exhibt through 10.12.19
    Chris Y.

    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.

    Alexander G.

    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.

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

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    Review Highlights - Hawaii State Library

    It's adjacent to Iolani Palace and across from the King Kamehameha statue.

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    Hawaii State Public Library System - Manoa Library - Japanese doll display

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Manoa Library

    3.5(55 reviews)
    3.0 miManoa

    Love this library. It is the most convenient one for me-- the location, the hours, the parking…read more(including street and at Mānoa Marketplace), and the awesome self-checkout stations! The librarians are wonderful too. There's been a turnover in recent years but they're just as warm, kind, and helpful. They have fun seasonal programs. The kid and I used to do the summer reading challenges and we'd claim fun prizes. Should do that again! OG members who have the red library card can keep it, (I think maybe until the account expires? I can't recall.) if you want the new blue one with the fancy logo you'd have to sign up for a new account. But who wants to memorize a new number?! Yesterday I went in on a whim to ask abt my account (I wasn't able to log in online a week or so ago). Didn't have my card OR ID (smh) but the librarians could look up my account via my account number. But of course the minute I confidently said I have it memorized i couldn't say it. (SMH again) Thankfully I have my app on the phone which has the barcode, but I had to log on to the library WIFI to access it (thank goodness for prefilled userid and password). Long story short, both librarians accommodated my situation and helped me borrow books and cancel requests etc. i realized later I can cancel the requests myself on the computers (which was how I placed the requests in the first place SMH x3) and via the self-service machine! Because you can enter the account number manually. Anyway. Best library. Cool a/c. Lots of tables and computers (I saw an uncle playing solitaire). Very quiet and calm, until I came along, that is.

    I actually enjoyed this public library. I do have one in my own neighborhood but if I ever want a…read morechange of scenery this is the place I would go to. I like that it has a covered u-shape parking lot with a drive-by book drop. There are two handicap stalls, one covered and one in the open. The library itself is located on the second floor and it was easy to navigate to the section I wanted to check out. And there are plenty of computers for people to log onto.

    Photos
    Hawaii State Public Library System - Manoa Library - Well organized books.

    Well organized books.

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Manoa Library - 3.31.26

    3.31.26

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Manoa Library - Outside

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    Outside

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Aiea Library - WWII Aiea memorial

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Aiea Library

    4.3(31 reviews)
    6.9 mi

    One of the best public libraries in Hawaii! Not only is it fairly new but, we love the Librarian…read morehere, Ms. Sasha! There's always something for all ages going on! They have monthly craft events, movie nights and more! We especially love Wednesday story time. There's lots of space for little ones with singing, dancing, a craft and of course book reading. Every 1st Wednesday they have puzzles and STEM toys out for little ones to play. Lastly, for older kids and adults, they offer all kinds of reading challenges some through logging books manually, some through the Beanstack app. Currently, during the Olympics, they have a reading challenge where you earn medals! They also have another challenge where you log books to earn prizes. Most recently, we participated in therapets event where you could read to a therapy dog. My daughter loved petting all the dogs and getting to know them! Overall, we absolutely love learning, reading, and playing at the library! Overall, we love learning, reading, and playing here!

    Shhhhhhh!!... As…read moreit's been awhile since I've stepped foot in a library and I don't know why as I do love a place to relax and get work done while my phone as gone through a day of use it also needed some recharging as well badly. Looking around some libraries as closed at 4pm but this Aiea location was open until 7pm that made it very convenient as I do see many use it for various reasons. Parking lot in the back is quite large and had no problems finding a spot while the restrooms are outside for public use is very nice as well. As i entered found it so nice and spacious with lots of tables though many spots are taken for the ones that needed outlets to work I did end up finding more designated tables and outlets use to charge is very cool. The vibe here is very relaxing and now will keep libraries in mind for times that I do need to sit and relax along with a restroom break as well all provided to the public is something we all need to remember. Thank you!

    Photos
    Hawaii State Public Library System - Aiea Library - Near the window inside

    Near the window inside

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Aiea Library - Sculpture "sweet"

    Sculpture "sweet"

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Aiea Library - Daughter charging her phone lol

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    Daughter charging her phone lol

    Hawaii State Public Library System - McCully-Moiliili Library - Don't want to deal with potential library fines?  Buy a book for a buck... or two or three

    Hawaii State Public Library System - McCully-Moiliili Library

    3.2(40 reviews)
    2.1 miMo'ili'ili

    Have been borrowing ebooks for years with my Hawaii State library card, without going into the…read morelibrary. Surprised when I received notice that my library card was expired and needed to be renewed in person. Easily made down to the McCully Moiliili library where I found the renewal process easy and quick. While there enjoyed seeing how nice the last renovation was. Reminded how many services there are to the public. I actually read a hardcopy of newspaper! Found some DVDs to rent... oldies but goodies yet I had never seen them before! Stayed to play on my phone a little as I was few minutes early for next appointment. Enjoyed the air conditioning! Thanked the nice staff at the library for their hard work. It was a fun and informative field trip to the library! Almost forgot how convenient they are!

    This is my neighborhood library and in the area where my Condo is. Earlier this year I got rid of…read moremy old computer & printer. I love that I can come here and use their computers and also get what I need printed. The staff is very helpful and this library has a more than adequate selection of books for everyone. It is enjoyable to come here. It is sad that the homeless population in the area, made it necessary for this library to be completely fenced in, when not in use. I am grateful for our State Public Libraries! If you're in the area, pay a visit!

    Photos
    Hawaii State Public Library System - McCully-Moiliili Library - Love the use of olelo Hawai'i at this library !

    Love the use of olelo Hawai'i at this library !

    Hawaii State Public Library System - McCully-Moiliili Library - Lots of computers for public use

    Lots of computers for public use

    Hawaii State Public Library System - McCully-Moiliili Library - DVDs for rent

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    DVDs for rent

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Waikiki-Kapahulu Library

    Hawaii State Public Library System - Waikiki-Kapahulu Library

    3.6(36 reviews)
    3.4 mi

    The library in Waikiki is near to where my granddaughter lives and we make a point to visit weekly…read moreto pick up books and enjoy the programs for the kids. Yesterday, we exchanged books and we were delighted to join in on the special program for May Day. We learned to make origami stars for paper leis. The kids were intently folding paper. The parents were enjoying the activity as much as the kids. The library has a nice kid's area with a train table, Lego table and other interactive toys. The other side of the library is quiet with adult books and computer work space. The library offers videos as well. I was happy to find a complete set of local bus schedules near the front entrance. The staff is friendly. The self check out is quick and easy. We also order our books on line and they are ready when we arrive The architecture of the library is tropical mid century modern. Parking is limited. But we can generally find a spot. There are rest rooms near the entrance.

    This is a wonderful neighborhood city library. Sarah, Kylee, and Ruth are exceptionally friendly,…read morepatient, and wonderful, as are many other staff members. They clearly work hard to maintain fun and creative community events and classes, and the staff is very patient with kids. One of my favorite events was when a local high school symphony performed in the children's area. There's a self-checkout desk, a large kids' play area, regular kid crafts and activities, board games (you can check out a bunch to play while there), computers, DVDs, automatic book renewal, and free/cheap printing. I liked when they had a bunch of stencils out one time! The staff is helpful, friendly, and available, but unobtrusive. I really appreciate that they welcome everyone and also speak up to ensure all the patrons are respectful and the space in front and around the library is safe.

    Photos
    Hawaii State Public Library System - Waikiki-Kapahulu Library
    Hawaii State Public Library System - Waikiki-Kapahulu Library
    Hawaii State Public Library System - Waikiki-Kapahulu Library

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    Hawaii State Library - libraries - Updated May 2026

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