Molokaʻi Public Library

Address

15 Ala Malama Ave, Kaunakakai, HI 96748, United States (Mailing Address: P.O. Box 395, Kaunakakai, HI 96748)
Directions

TEL: 808-553-1765

Photo of Molokai branch building

About

Welcome to the Molokaʻi Public Library! Designed by architect Harry K. Stewart, our library opened on May 21, 1937. It is a 3,627 sq. ft. library located in central Kaunakakai and serves as a hub for many community activities.


Ohana Readers and Imagination Library logosThe Molokaʻi Public Library participates in ʻOhana Readers, a literacy program that focuses on reading with family as an affiliate program of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The program offers high-quality, age-appropriate Imagination Library books each month to children who are under the age of five.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program is a ZIP code based mailing program. Families must live in these specific Molokai ZIP codes to participate. 

To register, click your ZIP code to download the registration form or visit the branch. You may return the form by mail or drop it off at the branch. The participating library will also offer programs that complement the books the children receive, and will provide other activities to promote literacy and reading.

For more information, visit the ‘Ohana Readers website.


Upcoming events at this branch

A smiling person holds a snorkel on a boat in clear turquoise water. Inset shows close-up of green seagrass on white sand underwater.

Hawaiʻi is home to a single endemic seagrass, Halophila hawaiiana, a small but mighty plant that stabilizes sediment, supports fish habitat, and cycles nutrients in nearshore waters across the islands. Despite its ecological importance, this species faces pressure from invasive algae and shifting ocean conditions: and we know surprisingly little about what makes it thrive or struggle.

Visiting researcher, Iker Yturralde, will share his findings, including what the genetic diversity of these plants can tell us about their resilience and how invisible microbial communities in the sediment may be quietly shaping the fate of restoration efforts. Warning: may cause an unexpected interest in seagrass.

Iker Yturralde is pursuing his PhD in Marine Biology at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and works in the Amend Laboratory. His research focuses on how microbial communities and genetics regulate the health and recovery ofHalophila hawaiianaacross the Hawaiian Archipelago. He loves the ocean and has found his purpose in exploring and protecting it.

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.

Cover of "The Littlest Drop" features a vibrant illustration of a hummingbird catching a drop of water, with swirling pink and yellow backgrounds.

Join the Molokai Public Library and ʻOhana Readers, an affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, to read a different story each month and complete a new activity each week. Receive a free book bag the first time you attend and collect a button for every story! Earn entries weekly toward the monthly prize drawing.

June:  The Littlest Drop, by Sascha Alper

Register Maui County keiki from birth to 5 for the ʻOhana Readers program to receive free books in the mail each month.

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.

Grid of six images representing Hawaiian places and items. Each image is labeled with a name and date. From top left clockwise: Kahoʻolawe (June 2) shows a barren landscape; Kalaipahoa (June 9) is a small statue; Pakaʻa (June 16) is a wooden drum; Halawa (July 7) is a lush valley with a blue bay; Lanikauula (June 30) is leafy vegetation; Hula (June 23) is a hillside.

Join local documentarian, Catherine Aki, for this special series presenting local legends—people, places and stories. Gather Tuesday afternoons throughout the month of June and into July.

June 2:  Kahoʻolawe

June 9:  Kalaipahoa

June 16:  Pakaʻa

June 23:  Hula

June 30:  Lanikaula

July 7:  Halawa

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 at librarieshawaii.org/events.

Banner reads: "Every First Wednesday of the Month, Molokai Kupuna Legacy Documentary Series. Debut at Molokai Public Library." Green and beige tones.

Join us for a special 12 part documentary series featuring the stories, knowledge, and legacy of Molokai kupuna every First Wednesday of the month!

This month:  Uncle Merv Dudoit:  Fishponds & Fishing on Molokai. Uncle Mervin shares his story of the history and cultural significance of Molokai’s fishponds and fishing traditions and practices.

Upcoming dates:  July 1, August 5, September 2, October 7, November 4.

Additional films:  Growing up in Waialua with the Laumana ʻOhana, Paniolo Nui o Molokai, Growing up with Music:  Uncle Kaleo Bishaw, Beautiful Mele of the Torres ʻOhana, The Fishponds with Uncle Russel Phifer, Farming Molokai, Growing up with the Helm ʻOhana, Lāʻau Lapaʻau, Homestead Farming with Uncle Kalani Han, Uncle Walter Rawlins:  Fishing Days.

Presented in partnership with Akakū Molokai and Molokai Rural Health Community Association’s Kupuna Program. Call 808-774-8991 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. All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events on the HSPLS Events Calendar.

A graphic featuring a laptop in the sky surrounded by clouds
Join an instructor from Māpunawai to learn computer basics, internet usage, telehealth, and online safety. Participants may also qualify for a free computer!
Contact the library to reserve your spot or register at https://www.mapunawai.com/molokai-001
Come back for more topics including:  AI for Everyday Life, Google Docs & Sheets, Advertising Online for Small Businesses, and AI for Web Design.

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 at librarieshawaii.org/events.

Cover of "The Littlest Drop" features a vibrant illustration of a hummingbird catching a drop of water, with swirling pink and yellow backgrounds.

Join the Molokai Public Library and ʻOhana Readers, an affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, to read a different story each month and complete a new activity each week. Receive a free book bag the first time you attend and collect a button for every story! Earn entries weekly toward the monthly prize drawing.

June:  The Littlest Drop, by Sascha Alper

Register Maui County keiki from birth to 5 for the ʻOhana Readers program to receive free books in the mail each month.

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.

Grid of six images representing Hawaiian places and items. Each image is labeled with a name and date. From top left clockwise: Kahoʻolawe (June 2) shows a barren landscape; Kalaipahoa (June 9) is a small statue; Pakaʻa (June 16) is a wooden drum; Halawa (July 7) is a lush valley with a blue bay; Lanikauula (June 30) is leafy vegetation; Hula (June 23) is a hillside.

Join local documentarian, Catherine Aki, for this special series presenting local legends—people, places and stories. Gather Tuesday afternoons throughout the month of June and into July.

June 2:  Kahoʻolawe

June 9:  Kalaipahoa

June 16:  Pakaʻa

June 23:  Hula

June 30:  Lanikaula

July 7:  Halawa

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 at librarieshawaii.org/events.

Two majestic whales swim gracefully underwater against a deep blue background. Text reads "Special Premiere: Ocean with David Attenborough."

Celebrate World Ocean Day (June 8) and National Ocean Month with a hana hou screening of Ocean with David Attenborough. First shown in April at the Mango Theater to celebrate Earth Day, this special event invites everyone to come together for an inspiring look at the world’s oceans through the lens of legendary naturalist Sir David Attenborough.

After the film, stay to listen to a previously recorded talk-story and Q&A featuring Molokai’s own Mac Poepoe, alongside longtime collaborator Dr. Alan Friedlander and Dr. Randy Kosaki, recently retired NOAA marine biologist for Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary. Dr. Friedlander recently retired as Chief Scientist of National Geographic’s Pristine Seas program, which helped produce the film. Together, they shared insights, stories, and perspectives on ocean stewardship and the importance of caring for our marine resources.

Generously sponsored by the Sacharuna Foundation. All ages 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. All programs are subject to change. See a schedule of upcoming events at librarieshawaii.org/events.

Illustrated book cover of "Edith Kanakaʻole: The Heart of Hula" shows a woman with a green leaf crown and long blue hair, exuding warmth and pride.

Join us for an evening of fun read-alouds, music, and reading resources! Families and educators welcome!

This month we will read The Heart of Hula:  Edith Kanakaʻole and Grandpa’s Mixed-Up Lūʻau!

Register here:  RTMI & Moloka‘i Public Library Family Literacy Night Registration and complete a post-program survey to take home both titles!

If you have any questions, please email Read To Me International Foundation or call/text Dannah (pronounced like Day-na) at 808-674-7667.

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.

A graphic featuring a laptop in the sky surrounded by clouds

Join an instructor from Māpunawai to learn how to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) in your daily activities! More information forthcoming.

Contact the library to reserve your spot!
Come back for more topics including:  Google Docs & Sheets, Advertising Online for Small Businesses, and AI for Web Design.

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 at librarieshawaii.org/events.

Hours

Date Time
Monday 9:00AM-12:00PM & 1:00PM-4:00PM -
Tuesday 9:00AM-12:00PM & 1:00PM-4:00PM -
Wednesday 12:00PM-4:00PM & 5:00PM-7:00PM -
Thursday 9:00AM-12:00PM & 1:00PM-4:00PM -
Friday 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Saturday CLOSED - CLOSED
Sunday CLOSED - CLOSED

Access

Parking spots 2
Parking fee Free
Handicap parking spots 1
Book drop off Yes
Restrooms Yes

Services

Computers 7
Magazines 50
Newspapers 5
WiFi Yes
Friends' book store No
Free computer classes Yes
Meeting rooms No
Photocopying Yes
Test proctoring services Yes

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.