Join us at the library for original poems and stories by Kealoha. Kealoha is the first Poet Laureate of Hawai`i. As an internationally acclaimed poet and storyteller, he has performed throughout the world — from the White House to the `Iolani Palace, from Brazil to Switzerland. In the 7 years that he has represented Hawai`i at the National Poetry Slam, he has performed on the finals stage 4 times, was ranked in the top ten of the nations best poets in 2007, and was honored as a “National Poetry Slam Legend” in 2010. Kealoha is the founder of HawaiiSlam (ranked 2nd in the nation), Youth Speaks Hawai`i (2-Time International Champions), and First Thursdays (the largest registered poetry slam in the world with 500+ in attendance). He graduated with honors from MIT with a degree in Nuclear Physics (and a minor in writing), served as a business consultant in San Francisco, and played around as a surf instructor prior to becoming a professional poet in 2002.

Program is suitable for ages 7 and older. Children must be accompanied by a parent or adult caregiver.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Library of Hawaii through a grant from the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation and the Rotary Club of Windward Oahu. Program schedule is subject to change. Contact the library 10 days in advance to request a sign language interpreter or if special accommodations are needed.