Summer Reading Challenge Concert Series | Free Music Events for All Ages!

Posted on: July 10, 2025 | Category: Spotlight

This July, the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge Concert Series brings the vibrant sounds of Hawai‘i to select public libraries! From joyful ‘ukulele strums to heartfelt Hawaiian falsetto and smooth jazz rhythms, each performance honors the power of mele and showcases the rich musical talent of our islands.

Ku'uipo KumukahiKU‘UIPO KUMUKAHI

On Saturday, July 12 at 2:00 p.m., head to Hilo Public Library (Hawai‘i Island) to hear the beloved Ku‘uipo Kumukahi, a Nā Hōkū Hanohano award-winning singer, whose voice celebrates the beauty of Hawaiian culture and tradition.

Hawaiian musician Kamakakehau FernandezKAMAKAKĒHAU FERNANDEZ

The music continues on Tuesday, July 15 at 5:15 p.m. at Kīhei Public Library (Maui) with the soaring falsetto of Kamakakēhau Fernandez, also a Nā Hōkū Hanohano award winner, known for his expressive vocals and deep connection to Hawaiian music.

DecorativeAN EVENING OF JAZZ

Finally, don’t miss An Evening of Jazz on Tuesday, July 22 at 6:00 p.m. at Kailua Public Library (O‘ahu) featuring an incredible quartet: Dean Taba, Noel Okimoto, Rafael Borges Amaral, and Allen Won.

These free, family-friendly events are made possible by the Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i and our generous 2025 Summer Reading sponsors. Bring the whole ‘ohana for an inspiring celebration of music, culture, and community!

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 schedules are subject to change.

ALERT | In holiday observance of Statehood Day, all public libraries will be closed on Friday, August 15, 2025.

ALERT | In holiday observance of Labor Day, all public libraries will be closed August 30 to September 1, 2025.

ALERT | In holiday observance of Veterans Day, all public libraries will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

ALERT | In holiday observance of Thanksgiving Day, all public libraries will be closed on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

ALERT | In holiday observance of Christmas Day, all public libraries will be closed on Thursday, December 25, 2025.

ALERT | In holiday observance of New Year's Day, all public libraries will be closed on Thursday, January 1, 2026.