Question: Will the Aina Haina library ever reopen? I miss my library community!
Answer: Yes, but the date keeps getting pushed back. The current estimate is early April, a year after the library closed due to storm damage.
The closure initially was expected to end in August, but was extended to February to include broader renovations. The projected February reopening is not going to happen.
Many library patrons have inquired, so we sought an update from Mallory Fujitani, a spokeswoman for Hawaii’s public libraries. She provided the following response and promised more information when a precise date is confirmed:
“The Hawaii State Public Library System truly appreciates the public’s patience and desire to see our Aina Haina Public Library reopen. We, too, are anxiously waiting the completion of the construction work. As anyone who has suffered through construction projects will tell you, a precise completion date is hard to pinpoint while you’re still in the midst of construction.
“At this time, assuming everything continues as planned, our best estimate for reopening is early April. While that seems like a long time away, there are several important tasks that must be done prior to re-opening. The bathroom renovation is nearing completion (the flooring and new bathroom fixtures are being installed in the coming weeks), and the library will need to complete all required inspections, which are planned in the next few weeks.
“Once the library is returned to the control of the Hawaii State Public Library System, we will need a short amount of time to prepare the Aina Haina Library for reopening. Among other things, we’ll need to clean the interior, re-install all of the electronic equipment (including all computers) and furniture, and move and reshelve over 1,700 boxes of books and materials.
“We will definitely keep you informed once we are able to confirm a reopening date.”
The library at 5246 Kalanianaole Highway was inundated during a nighttime rainstorm April 13 that also flooded nearby homes and businesses. Most of its books and other materials were spared, being elevated on shelves and tables, but muddy stormwater wrecked the flooring. While closed for those repairs, the library received approval for long-sought restroom renovations, which will make the restrooms ADA-compliant. Painting and other work also are being done.
Readers who have complained about the long closure emphasize that the library is a key resource for the community, beloved not only by children who attend nearby elementary schools, but also by older students and adults who rely on it as a source or information, education and social connection.
Q: Have all the property tax bills gone out? I never got mine. I live in Aiea.
A: Yes, and payments are due by Feb. 20, so contact the city immediately. “Tax bills have been mailed to all property owners or agents servicing their accounts,” according to a statement from the city. Contact the city by phone (768-3980), online (honoluluproperty tax.com) or in person (Honolulu Hale, 530 S. King St., Room 115).
Mahalo
Mahalo to two very kind and caring ladies. On Feb. 13, as I left the Federal Building, I was caught in the rain. A woman wearing a raincoat offered me the use of her umbrella. I did not get her name, as she walked away. I also was not able to thank her for her gift. It was still raining when I left the Keelikolani Building. I discovered my cellphone battery had died. The helpful woman at the guard station used her phone to call a cab, then got me a chair and made me comfortable until the taxi arrived. I apologize but I have forgotten her name. — 101-year-old veteran
Write to Kokua Line at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; call 529-4773; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.
