In 1976, the Kōloa Public and School Library opened in June 1976 as Kauaʻi’s first and only library of its kind.
On Friday, the library marked its 50th anniversary with a community celebration featuring live entertainment, hands-on activities and remarks recognizing its longstanding role as a center for learning and connection on Kauaʻi.
“For 50 years, Kōloa Public and School Library has welcomed children discovering their first stories, students of all ages pursuing their education, and neighbors seeking connections,” State Librarian Stacey A. Aldrich said. “We’re proud to carry this legacy into the next 50 years and beyond.”
The anniversary event brought together residents of all ages for a day of festivities that included lei poʻo demonstrations, button and bag charm making, printing press book journal crafts, face painting and a Lego lounge. Music was performed by Aldrine Guerrero.
Guests received a limited-edition tote bag and stickers during the 50-year celebration on Friday, July 24, 2026. (Photo Credit: Xiomara Yamileth/ Kauaʻi Now)- The Kōloa Public and School Library celebrated its 50th anniversary on Friday, July 24, 2026, marking fifty years of stories. (Xiomara Yamileth/ Kauaʻi Now)
- The Kōloa Public and School Library marked its 50th anniversary on July 24, 2026, with music, crafts, and community activities. (Xiomara Yamileth/ Kauaʻi Now)
The Hawaiʻi State Legislature also awarded the library a certificate in honor of its 50-year legacy, with state Rep. Dee Morikawa also delivering remarks.
“This is an all-day celebration,” Branch Manager Stephanie Ibbs said. “It’s wonderful to see the community and everybody here. The library is the community.”
She also acknowledged her staff.
“To every librarian and staff member who works here, mahalo to those who opened the doors each morning, welcomed generations of children and families, help someone find just the right book, answer to countless questions, created programs, embraced new technologies, and made sure that everyone who walked through those doors right over there, felt like they belonged,” she said.
“Our 50th Anniversary is a celebration of the people of Kōloa and the surrounding communities who use the library to read, learn something new, and connect with their community.”
The 10,400-square-foot facility was designed by Wilson Okamoto and Associates and serves students at Kōloa Elementary School as well as residents of Kōloa, Poʻipū, Kukuiʻula, ʻŌmaʻo, Lāwaʻi and Kalāheo.
Over the past five decades, the library has become a gathering place for reading, education and community engagement. In addition to its collections and programs, the library showcases local art, including four outdoor murals added in 2024.
- During the celebration on Friday, July 24, 2026, Table 53 at RumFire presented a $4,000 check to Friends of Kōloa Library. (Xiomara Yamileth/ Kauaʻi Now)
- Kōloa Public and School Library on Kauaʻis southshore offers a wide selection and variety of books. (Xiomara Yamileth/ Kauaʻi Now)
Table 53 at RumFire Poipu Beach, situated at Sheraton Kauaʻi Resort, also handed a $4,000 check to the Friends of Kōloa Library. It comes from the restaurant’s “You Dine, We Donate” program.
Ibbs hopes the next 50 years brings more community and more connections.
“We want people to feel welcome to come in and get their reading if they want to learn something new, or it can be a place to connect with others,” she said.
