Skip to Content

17 Unexpected Benefits from the Public Library in Hawaii

17 Unexpected Benefits from the Public Library in Hawaii

Did you know you can borrow seeds and even ukuleles from the public library in Hawaii? It’s true! There are some incredible benefits to having a Hawaii State Public Library System card, and those benefits go far beyond just books.

Unique Collections

From seeds to ukuleles to historic dolls, there are some unique physical collections offered by the public library in Hawaii. Here are some services you won’t want to miss.

Seed Stations

Want to start a garden? Pick up a free packet of seeds from the public library in Hawaii! Many branches have seed packets available.

These stations not only promote sustainable gardening practices but also help in preserving and sharing local flora. Patrons are encouraged to take one or leave one to share with others!

You can find the seed stations at these public libraries in Hawaii:

  • Kahuku Public and School Library (Oahu)
  • Kailua-Kona Public Library (Hawaii Island)
  • Kaimuki Public Library (Oahu)
  • Kalihi-Palama Public Library (Oahu)
  • Kapolei Public Library (Oahu)
  • Naalehu Public Library (Hawaii Island)
  • Pearl City Public Library (Oahu)
  • Waianae Public Library (Oahu)

Ukulele Lending Program

Ever thought about strumming a ukulele? The public library in Hawaii makes it easy and fun! They have a ukulele lending program where you can borrow a ukulele for free. It’s a fantastic way to get into Hawaii’s iconic music without having to buy your own instrument.

Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to play for fun, this program is a great way to connect with local culture. Each kit includes a ukulele, battery-operated tuner and carrying case. You can borrow it for three weeks before it has to be returned!

Plus, it’s super easy to get started – just pop into any public library in Hawaii to get started!

Talking Books

Need a more accessible way to enjoy books? The public library in Hawaii has got you covered with their talking books service. Designed for those with visual or physical disabilities, this collection ensures that everyone can experience the joy of reading. It’s a wonderful resource that brings stories to life, making reading easy and enjoyable for all.

For more information on these services, you can visit the Hawaii State Public Library System’s website.

Hawaiian Sheet Music

Dive into Hawaii’s musical heritage with the library’s collection of Hawaiian sheet music. It’s a fantastic way to explore traditional and contemporary local tunes, perfect for musicians or anyone curious about the island’s musical roots.

This collection cannot be borrowed but it can be admired inside the Hawaii & Pacific Section of the Hawaii State Library in Honolulu.

Hawaiian Quilt Patterns

Craft enthusiasts will love the library’s collection of Hawaiian quilt patterns. These beautiful designs are not only a joy to create but also offer a glimpse into a unique part of Hawaiian culture and artistry.

There are 548 Hawaiian quilt patterns available at the Waianae Public Library in Waianae. They also have a tracing station set up so that you can copy the designs.

Another 80 designs are available at the Thelma Parker Memorial Public and School Library in Waimea as well. However, these can be sent to other libraries through the interlibrary loan program.

Hawaii Yearbooks

Take a nostalgic journey with the library’s collection of Hawaii yearbooks. It’s a fun way to reminisce or explore the islands’ past through the eyes of its students over the years.

This collection is stored at the Hawaii & Pacific Section of the Hawaii State Library in Honolulu. There are over 2,000 yearbooks in the collection!

Historic Doll Collection

History buffs and collectors will be fascinated by the library’s historical doll collection. Each doll is a window into different cultures and historical periods, offering a unique and intriguing perspective on history.

There are over 200 dolls in the Edna Allyn Room for Children at the Hawaii State Library in Honolulu. They can’t be checked out, but they can be admired there.

Digital Offerings

No matter where you’re located, you can enjoy the digital offerings from the public library in Hawaii! You just need to get your library card to sign in to these incredible services, which you can use from the comfort of your own home.

  • Overdrive: Offers a diverse collection including over 54,000 eBooks, 14,800+ audiobooks, and more than 3,000 magazines, catering to various interests and age groups.
  • Bookflix for Kids: An engaging platform for children that pairs animated stories with related nonfiction eBooks.
  • Kyobo Korean eBooks: A substantial collection of 3,300+ Korean language eBooks across different genres.
  • PressReader: Provides access to a wide range of 6,000+ international newspapers and magazines for a global perspective.
  • The New York Times: Unlimited online access to news, articles, and features from a leading global news source.

So, whether you’re a bookworm, a news junkie, or just exploring, everyone can find something to enjoy from the digital offerings from the public library in Hawaii.

Online Learning Resources

For expanding your knowledge and skills, the public library in Hawaii offers a fantastic range of online learning resources:

  • Gale Courses: Get access to a wide variety of interactive, instructor-led courses covering everything from health and wellness to creative writing and computer skills.
  • LearningExpress Library: This resource is perfect for academic advancement and career development, offering a plethora of practice tests, exercises, skill-building courses, and informational eBooks.
  • Mango Languages: Immerse yourself in learning a new language with this user-friendly tool, offering courses in over 70 languages.
  • Free Computer Classes: Available at local branches, these classes are ideal for anyone looking to improve their computer literacy and learn new tech skills.
  • Scholastic Teachables: A treasure trove for educators and parents, this service provides thousands of worksheets, lesson plans, learning games, and more, across various subjects and grades.

Each of these services is designed to cater to a range of learning needs and interests, making the public library in Hawaii a hub for personal and professional growth.

About the Public Library in Hawaii

The Hawaii State Public Library System is a network of libraries spread across the Hawaiian Islands, each offering a unique blend of resources and services tailored to their communities. From bustling city branches to cozy rural spots, these libraries are more than just buildings with books; they’re community hubs where people of all ages and backgrounds can learn, create, and connect.

  • Kauai: Home to 6 public libraries, each offering a unique set of services and resources tailored to the local community.
  • Oahu: Features the most extensive network, with numerous branches including specialized libraries.
  • Maui: Hosts several libraries, each serving as important cultural and educational hubs.
  • Hawaii (Big Island): Offers a range of libraries in various towns, each with its own local charm.
  • Lanai and Molokai: Each island has a dedicated library, catering to the needs of their communities.

For more specific details on each island’s libraries, you can visit Hawaii State Public Library System’s branches.

Relief Recap

With a library card, residents have access to a vast array of materials, programs, and digital services. From unique physical collections like Hawaiian quilt patterns and seed stations to a vast range of digital resources including eBooks and online learning tools, the public library in Hawaii caters to diverse interests and needs. The network spans across all major islands, ensuring accessibility for all residents.

This article is the product of a team effort! Multiple authors from the Low Income Relief team have contributed to this post. We have also used AI tools to organize data and refine the writing in accordance with our Responsible AI Use Policy. All articles on our website are reviewed by our founder and resident poverty expert, Nicole Thelin, prior to publication.