Welcome to the Hilo Public Library! Our library is the largest library on Hawai‘i 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 Hawai‘i Island artist Henry Bianchini’s donated sculpture “Involuntary Journey” is located in the library’s atrium.

Do you need a keiki ID card or to update the photo on a current one? Officers from the Hilo Police Department will be here to do just that. This is a free service and prior registration is not required.
About keiki ID’s:
The Hawaiʻi Police Department provides free keiki IDs at community events around the island throughout the year. A photograph of the child is taken and laminated onto a department-issued identification card with emergency information about a child. Parents are then given the keiki ID card. Remember to update your keiki’s photo at least yearly as there will be changes to physical characteristics with age.
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.

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 our teen manga club!
Our discussion will cover Toilet-Bound Hanako-Kun (vol. 1) by Aidalro. This title is recommended for ages 13 and older.
Book copies can be obtained by request from our library system (catalog, app, or in-person). It is suggested to read the book ahead of time to be prepared for our group discussion. You may bring your copy of the book to reference during the discussion.
Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is not required. Mahalo to the Friends of the Hilo Public Library for sponsoring this program.
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.

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.

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.

Celebrate the magic of the holidays with a special visit from Santa Claus! Keiki and their families are invited to enjoy an engaging 30-minute storytelling session filled with beloved holiday tales, followed by a chance to capture a memorable photo with Santa. Keiki will also receive a special gift to take home (while supplies last).
Recommended for ages 3 to 6, but all ages are welcome to this free event. All keiki must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver.
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.

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.

Join us for a story time and information session with Aunty Hazel from Ohana Literacy Assistance. This is a non-profit organization that provides reading and literacy assistance to Big Island families. Children attending will be given a free book suitable for their reading level provided by Ohana Literacy Assistance. This program is free and registration is not necessary.
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.

Tina is a certified Therapy Dog with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, delighting in the company of people of all ages, with a special fondness for children. She loves a good book and eagerly awaits your visit to read to her and offer some gentle pets.
This program is free and suitable for ages 5 and up. Parent or caregiver must be present when child is participating in this program. This program is to help young readers feel comfortable practicing their reading skills in a relaxed environment. Registration is not necessary and inquiries are welcome.
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.

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.
| 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 |
HOLIDAY CLOSURE | In observance of Veterans Day, all public libraries will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
HOLIDAY CLOSURE | In observance of Thanksgiving Day, all public libraries will be closed on Thursday, November 26, 2026.