As COVID-19 case numbers continue to decline in Hawaiʻi, more locations and public activities are opening up around the state.
That includes the state library system where many branches used the time during the pandemic for renovation projects.
Several libraries around the islands are still working on updates and have not yet re-opened.
But State Librarian Stacey Aldrich says patrons have been thrilled with the chance to return to the main branch of the state library in Honolulu. It reopened on Feb. 28.
“People are just so happy they can come back in and browse the shelves and use the computers and just sit in the library. I think that library is such an inspirational place for people to be. I think they just missed being able to sit in the courtyard and read or just browse the stacks," Aldrich told The Conversation.
"I love to browse the stacks. It’s so exciting. There are just so many stories and so much to learn. I think a lot of people missed it. So they’re really happy to be back," Aldrich said.
Aldrich says the main branch of the library is slowly bringing back services such as assisting people with taxes and helping people get passports.
The state library system plans to host more in-person events starting next month.
The library is a state facility so patrons must present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to enter through March 25 — when the state emergency proclamation expires. But Miller said the staff is more than happy to help people at the door if they do not have documentation.
The Kahului (Maui), McCully-Mōʻiliʻili(Oʻahu), and Waimea (Kauaʻi) libraries remain closed for renovation and repair work.
This interview aired on The Conversation on March 14, 2022. The Conversation airs weekdays at 11 a.m. on HPR-1.
