Welcome to the Hilo Public Library! Our library is the largest library on Hawaii Island and opened on Jan. 20, 1951. The Naha, one of two historic stones located in front of the library, is believed to be what King Kamehameha lifted to affirm the prophecy that he would unite the Hawaiian Islands. Well-known Hawaii Island artist Henry Bianchini’s donated sculpture “Involuntary Journey” is located in the library’s atrium.
This program is designed to give children and teens a chance to enjoy reading aloud with no pressure and no judgment. However, if you don’t want to read to the dog, you can just visit. The registered therapy dogs of K9 Therapets Hawaii visit the first Wednesday of the month. All the dogs that participate are specially trained and can help kids of all ages practice reading aloud without judgment. If you want a comfortable setting to practice your reading fluency, reading comprehension, or comfort with canines in general, this is the event for you. Registration is not required.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required.
All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events on the HSPLS Events Calendar.
Game on! Join us Wednesday evenings from 4:30-6:30 pm for Scrabble play. We also have an assortment of other board games to choose from.
Please check out games from the Reference Desk and enjoy them quietly on the designated lanai tables. You may also bring games from home to share.
Program is suitable for ages 8 to adult. Children must be always accompanied by an adult.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. All programs are subject to change and will not be held on State holidays.
Game on! Join us Wednesday evenings from 4:30-6:30 pm for Scrabble play. We also have an assortment of other board games to choose from.
Please check out games from the Reference Desk and enjoy them quietly on the designated lanai tables. You may also bring games from home to share.
Program is suitable for ages 8 to adult. Children must be always accompanied by an adult.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. All programs are subject to change and will not be held on State holidays.
Meet our newest therapy dog Adaka! This program is designed to give children and teens a chance to enjoy reading aloud with no pressure and no judgment. However, if you don’t want to read to the dog, you can just visit. All the dogs that participate are specially trained and can help kids of all ages practice reading aloud without judgment. If you want a comfortable setting to practice your reading fluency, reading comprehension, or comfort with canines in general, this is the event for you. Registration is not required.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required.
All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events on the HSPLS Events Calendar.
Celebrate the rich traditions of Hawai‘i through mele with renowned musician Kuʻuipo Kumukahi. Her soulful voice and storytelling bring the music and culture of the islands to life. This free event is suitable for all ages.
Sponsored by the Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i and the 2025 Summer Reading Sponsors.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. Program schedule is subject to change.
Tweens/Teens can have fun decorating a musical theme to a small tin. Decorated tins can be taken home as a handy, portable storage for small items. Supplies are provided. No registration required.
This program is free and funded by the Friends of the Hilo Public Library.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events on the HSPLS Events Calendar.
Join us for a fun, hands on activity for ages 4 to adult! Learn about native plants and how they help our environment while making seed balls using local native seeds, clay, and soil. We provide gloves, so you can get your hands dirty. Making seed balls to be taken home to plant or share will help to grow a healthier, more resilient ecosystem. No experience needed. This program is free and all materials will be provided. This event is great for families, friends , and nature lovers of all kinds. Presented by the Big Island Invasive Species Committee and the Division of Forestry and Wildlife.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required.
All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events on the HSPLS Events Calendar.
Game on! Join us Wednesday evenings from 4:30-6:30 pm for Scrabble play. We also have an assortment of other board games to choose from.
Please check out games from the Reference Desk and enjoy them quietly on the designated lanai tables. You may also bring games from home to share.
Program is suitable for ages 8 to adult. Children must be always accompanied by an adult.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. All programs are subject to change and will not be held on State holidays.
Our community partner, Parents and Children Together, will be hosting a special story time and craft. Join us in the children’s room for this program. Recommend for ages 2 and up with adult supervision. Caregivers and families welcome.
To learn more, visit: Parents and Children Together
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service, or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events on the HSPLS Events Calendar.
Join us the third Saturday of each month to show off the latest projects you have been working on, learn about new techniques, and enjoy the company of fellow handweaving enthusiasts! Open to handweavers of all skill levels. Don’t be “weft” behind in the fun!
Visit Hawaii Handweavers’ Hui for more information.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a program, service or activity should contact library staff as soon as possible. Advance requests 48 hours or more before the event are encouraged, but not required. Program schedule is subject to change.
Date | Time |
---|---|
Monday | CLOSED - CLOSED |
Tuesday | 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
Wednesday | 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM |
Thursday | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
Friday | 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
Saturday | 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM |
Sunday | CLOSED - CLOSED |
Parking spots | 50 |
Parking fee | Free |
Handicap parking spots | 3 |
Book drop off | Yes |
Restrooms | Yes |
Computers | 10 |
Magazines | 50 |
Newspapers | 8 |
WiFi | Yes |
Friends' book store | Yes |
Free computer classes | No |
Meeting rooms | No |
Photocopying | Yes |
Test proctoring services | No |