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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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 :)
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.
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.
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.
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
3 months ago
This is just a plug for the amazing resource that is our library!! Anyone who hasn't been there in awhile (I'm talking about the main library on S King Street) need to check it out. All the libraries have hard copy books, audiobooks, kindle books, DVD's, CD's, magazines, newspapers, all sorts of classes (through Kanopy), tech classes, events for the keiki, and other stuff I don't have space to include. Just go and educate yourself and have fun. Oh yeah, you can renew your passport there, too!!! What's your excuse not to go, especially if book bans ever take effect, heaven forbid. read more
11 months ago
1 year ago
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
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
11 months ago
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
2 years ago
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
1 year ago
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
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
3 years ago
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
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
3 years ago
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
1 year ago
1 year ago
4 years ago
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
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
7 years ago
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
2 years ago
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
2 years ago
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
1 year ago
8 years ago
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
"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
2 years ago
2 years ago
3 years ago
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
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
5 years ago
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
5 years ago
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
7 years ago
4 years ago
Today I am attending 2 FREE library events! 1. Cherry Blossom water color painting by an artist from Osaka! What a fabulous event where her daughter conducted the presentation while her mom demonstrated. It was such an enjoyable 2 hours. They provided all the materials: 2 paint brushes, water colors, palette, 2 practice sheets, 2 post cards & a matted frame board. The artist slowly demonstrated how to paint the brown tree trunk with thin branches with hanging green vines. Then the delicate pink cherry blossom petals that look like 5 hearts to make a flower shape. Those cherry blossoms were the hardest to paint but she made them so effortless. Then came the sponge technique that we blotted paper towels to make green grass near the trunk of our tree. She also blotted pink to make it so colorful. She even painted turquoise in the side of the bark to make like moss was growing on the side if the tree. Her work of art was so beautiful. It was so much fun for all that attended especially because we could practice so much with all the different types of paper she gave us. The 2 postcards that i painted were given to my girlfriend's mother & in-law for Mother's day since they have been so kind to me & my family thtoughout the years! Plus, i knew they would appreciate the Japanese Cherry Blossom painting. They even hosted a tea party out in the courtyard with delicious hot green tea with fresh crunchy arare straight from Japan! They were so generous in sharing all of this and special tea ceremony papers & wafer! Wow, what a FANTASTIC experience that was so enjoyable that i was happy the rest of the day! Painting even not so good painting is so relaxing & refreshing! Kudos to the Library for this FREE event!! Please bring them back again!! read more
4 years ago
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