PRINCEVILLE — On April 12, the Princeville Public Library celebrated its ninth birthday. In honor of the occasion, Jennifer Relacion, acting head librarian — who has been with the library since its inception — welcomed many of the Friends of
PRINCEVILLE — On April 12, the Princeville Public Library celebrated its ninth birthday. In honor of the occasion, Jennifer Relacion, acting head librarian — who has been with the library since its inception — welcomed many of the Friends of the North Shore library’s members as well as members of the local community. Guests were treated to a morning of song, dance and recognition of the library’s many devoted volunteers. In addition, “Friends” board members reviewed the many projects and activities the library offers to the community. Art work is always on display at the library. Currently, the students of Kilauea School have their creations on the walls for readers to view.
The speaker’s program, scheduled for the second Wednesday of every month (except November when the library has special events), runs from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The May 14 program will feature Chuck Blay speaking on the geology of Kaua‘i.
Special displays in the library’s front cases are featured to entice visitors to learn about the Hawaiian culture, waters of Kaua‘i and more. The current display features Limahuli Garden.
The Makana Akamai book donation program is ongoing. Donate $25 and have a book plate created by artist Anne Schneider inserted into a book that honors or memorializes a loved one.
Relacion took a moment at the anniversary event to acknowledge the efforts of Ann and Jack Schlager, two of the library’s most valuable volunteers. Jack served as the president of Friends in the early stages of the organization. He and Ann were responsible for the library’s book sales, working weekly to categorize and organize the books that were donated to the cause, Relacion said. They also worked on many other projects that produced great results for the library.
Naomi Yokotake’s Hula Halau O’Hanalei performed as well at the Saturday event. Both the keiki and women’s classes performed for the guests.
The Princeville branch is the local chapter of Friends of the Library of Hawaii, an active group of library users and advocates who for years have supported Hawai‘i’s public libraries through legislative testimony and funding for programs, equipment and staff training.
The group’s efforts began before the opening of the North Shore library on April 14, 1999, and continue on today in a variety of ways.
For more information about joining the Friends of the North Shore Library, visit the Web site at www.hawaiian.net/northshorelibrary or contact board president Barbara Smith at 826-7585.
