It’s all happening at the library

» The Teen Summer Reading Program Finale will be from 11:00 am to noon today at Kahala Mall Center Court Stage. Former "American Idol" finalist Jordan Segundo will emcee the free event and Hypersquad Dance Company will perform. Twenty-three teens representing each of Oahu’s public libraries will vie for prizes provided by Hawaii Pizza Hut.

» Apply for a library card at your local public library; it’s free for Hawaii residents and military personnel and dependents. New readers who are able to sign their name can get their own card!

» Lost your library card? Under new rules that go into effect Aug. 5, replacement card fees will actually decrease from $10 to $5.

» Need resources for writing reports and research papers? Visit the Hawaii State Public Library System website, www.librarieshawaii.org, for a listing of online databases with full-text articles on a wide variety of subjects. The Ask-a-Librarian e-Reference service and online databases are available 24/7.

» Need required reading for school assignments? Save money by visiting the library for reading materials instead of purchasing them.

» Going to school for the first time? Check out these suggested titles provided by your friendly librarians at the Hawaii State Library’s Edna Allyn Room for Children: "Lily’s Purple Plastic Purse" and "Wemberly Worried," by Kevin Henkes; "Froggy Goes to School," by Jonathan London; "I’m Absolutely Too Small for School," by Lauren Child; and "If You Take A Mouse to School," by Laura Numeroff.

» Other money-saving benefits from Hawaii’s public libraries include: free Internet access with a valid library card; free programs featuring award-winning performers and guests; a $1 weekly fee for borrowing DVDs; e-mail notices for requested and overdue items; telephone renewals are available at any public library.

» Hawaii’s public libraries now offer a diverse collection of e-books, audiobooks and e-music. Go to www.librarieshawaii.org and start downloading today.

— Paul H. Mark, HSPLS information specialist

In appreciation of teachers

Office Depot stores in Waipahu, Aiea, Dillingham and Ward are showing their appreciation for teachers with free tote bags, planners and other products, a 10 percent discount on school supplies, 50 percent back in rewards on select products and a free networking breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m. today.

The retailer’s Star Teacher Program includes year-round offers, such as 10 percent back on ink, toner and paper purchases and an instant 15 percent discount on design, print and shipping services.

Wanted: No. 2 pencils and more

The Wahiawa Lions will collect donations of school supplies or money from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today and next Saturday at the Wahiawa Shopping Center near Longs, and today and Aug. 14 at Tamura’s Market.

The drive will benefit needy children attending Wahiawa-area schools, where at some campuses more than 80 percent of students receive free or reduced-price lunches.

"Last year we collected over $1,800 and nearly 600 pounds of supplies. With the community’s support we hope to do even better this year, because the need is just as great," said Wahiawa Lions’ President Tino Bagasol in a news release.

For more information or to make a donation, call Jack Kampfer at 621-0852.

Shinto shrine to bless students

Hawaii Kotohira Jinsha-Hawaii Dazaifu Tenmangu, a Shinto shrine, is conducting a special "back-to-school education blessing steeped in ancient tradition" tomorrow for students, teachers and support staff, who can show up any time from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"The blessing creates a day of celebration honoring students of all ages so they may enjoy learning, take delight in new discoveries and persevere in their studies," according to a release.

The shrine is at 1239 Olomea St., next to Honolulu Ford in Kalihi. Call 721-2935 or visit www.e-shrine.org.