LIHU‘E — A new data projector and an audio-visual screen are just a few of the new toys Lihu‘e Library patrons will be able to enjoy once construction is finished. “We’re under way,” said Carolyn Larson, Lihu‘e Library librarian. “There
LIHU‘E — A new data projector and an audio-visual screen are just a few of the new toys Lihu‘e Library patrons will be able to enjoy once construction is finished.
“We’re under way,” said Carolyn Larson, Lihu‘e Library librarian. “There was a slight pause in the work when we ran into some technical issues, but those issues have been resolved and the work continues.”
Originally scheduled to be completed by the end of 2012, the revised completion date is now by the end of 2013.
“We’re still going to have to close down a portion of the main library, but we want to assure the community the library will continue to operate and offer limited services,” Larson said.
“The big question is when are we going to curtail services.”
Larson said construction crews are working on renovating a community meeting room and the information technology section of the library. Once the work in those sections are completed, library operations will move into those rooms in anticipation of the curtailment of services.
“We just don’t have a definite date on when all of this is going to take place,” Larson said. “We want to emphasize, again that we are not going to close — just offer limited service.”
Through the renovation work, which started in 2012, the Friends of the Lihu‘e Public Library continued to support the library, Larson said.
The organization arranged to have “a sleigh load” of new books and movies delivered to the Lihu‘e Library ahead of the Christmas holidays.
“The Friends allocated $1,200 this year to strengthen the library’s limited collections budget,” says Larry Lee, president of the Friends of the Lihu‘e Public Library, in a release. “This give allows the library to pick up replacement copies and new books and DVDs, which may have been passed over during the year for lack of funds.”
Larson said the new books and DVDs are popular. A display of the new offerings are beneath Friends supporter wear, which were designed by Joy Kouchi.
“The Lihu‘e Public Library is the island’s central library,” said Lee. “We feel a responsibility to help the librarian maintain a collection, which serves both the Lihu‘e community and the island at large.”
During the renovation of the library, the Friends continue to look ahead. The organization was a recipient of the Young Brothers Community Advisory Board grant, which will help the library develop the capacity to provide media-based programs for the general public following the renovations.
According to a release, the grant will assist in purchasing a data projector, an installed audio-visual screen, and other equipment for use in Lihu‘e Library’s public programs incorporating movies, interactive games, PowerPoint and other media presentations.
“The Friends are honored and grateful to receive this grant from Young Brothers,” Lee said.
“Our municipal libraries have always been a gathering place for the public to learn. The equipment to be purchased from this gift will allow us to expand our programs as we continually strive to service the needs of our communities.”
Larson said during the period of renovation, the library is not planning on any public events such as meetings or presentations. However, all other services remain fully functional.
“The Friends are truly friends, indeed,” Larson said.
Call 241-3222 for more information.
• Dennis Fujimoto, photographer and staff writer, can be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 253) or dfujimoto@ thegardenisland.com.
