New Nanakuli Library offers self-service checkout

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The new $15.5 million Nanakuli Public Library opened Saturday, introducing advanced technology to the state’s public library system by allowing patrons to use self-checkout stations to borrow a stack of books with one quick motion. Other features include a small business service center and audio recording facilities and equipment to record oral histories by older residents and other community members.

The 18,000-square-foot facility, located at 89-070 Farrington Highway on a 3-acre site fronting Nanaikapono Elementary School, serves Nanakuli and Maili. Its design, reminiscent of a Hawaiian village, includes community meeting rooms and an outdoor program area.

Designed by architect Glenn Miura and CDS International, the building is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver Certified, with such features as large windows and skylights to reduce electricity costs for lighting and elements that take advantage of natural ventilation.

Inside, patrons will find shelves to accommodate up to 35,000 books and 3,000 DVDs and CDs, free wireless internet access for library card holders and 32 computers for public and library use.

Hours are 1 to 8 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.