Patricia

HSPLS green library card

When Patricia visits the Hawai‘i State Library, she’s where she belongs.

I spent an extended vacation of almost a year in Honolulu after graduating from college in the Philippines before going on to law school. I stayed with my aunt who was then the Director of Human Resources of the City & County of Honolulu. I would often spend entire afternoons at the Hawai‘i State Library (which I referred to as “my office”) before meeting her at the end of the day at office a few steps away. These were the days before digital media: I would also borrow jazz records to listen to while enjoying my books at home. I regret not being able to visit “my office” during a recent visit to Honolulu, but it will always have a special place in my heart.

– Patricia


Thank you, Patricia, for telling your story!

Tell us your story!

What are you doing when you are where you belong?

ALERT | All public libraries will be closed in state observance of King Kamehameha Day on Thursday, June 11, 2026.

ALERT | Libraries will observe the Independence Day holiday July 3–5, 2026. Most libraries will be closed Friday, July 3; however, ʻAiea, ʻĀina Haina, Hanapēpē, Hawai‘i Kai, Hilo, Kahului, Kailua-Kona, Kīhei, Liliha, Makawao, McCully-Mōʻiliʻili, Princeville, Thelma Parker, Wahiawā, Waialua, Waimānalo, Waikīkī-Kapahulu, and Waipahu will be open July 3 and closed Saturday, July 4.

HOLIDAY CLOSURE | In observance of Statehood Day, all public libraries will be closed on Friday, August 21, 2026.

ALERT | In observance of Labor Day, all public libraries will be closed Saturday, September 5 through Monday, September 7, 2026.