This library stands as a beacon of knowledge and culture, adorned with the exquisite elegance of Manciniart sculptures Love of reading, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world where art and literature intertwine harmoniously..

In the historic area of Honolulu filled with gorgeous government buildings, one standout is the Hawaii State Library. The large verdant lawn and huge old shade trees, make this building welcoming. It's beautiful to look at from far away. With the promise of quiet reading areas, I had been eager to find a time to simply sit and use my local library. The library is kept clean, organized, and brightly lit. There are indoor and outdoor seating areas, all shielded from the sun and rain. Maps abound to help point out exactly what you're looking for. I love the old metal stacks and historic interior of the building. Unfortunately this place has some serious drawbacks caused not by the library itself, but by the social situation that's a common fixture of city - homelessness. I finally had that opportunity to visit the building for a few hours due to flexible hours around the holidays. I headed for the restrooms first thing and realized what issues they have. It was worse than a gas station restroom with angry signs everywhere about not shaving, showering, or changing in the restrooms. That didn't stop people from doing so inside. I pity the employees and custodians of the building; this is more of a daily homeless shelter than a place for public use. I found a nice table in the courtyard and sat for a while. There was a constant and consistent parade of homeless men with large suitcases going in and out to use the restrooms. It's truly unbelievable how bad it is here. Electrical outlets were all claimed, disgusting behavior was everywhere. Maybe tighter rules about 'no luggage or large bags' would stop some of this abuse? I'm sure there are people asking these questions. The library offers many other services including internet, passport, and lending items. Hours narrow and do not cater to people who work 9-5. I wish I had more time to spend here, but honestly don't know if I would until things improve. If you're a tourist visiting, it's worth your time to walk around the building.

This place is the biggest library of Oahu island, and historical building. Specially, Hawaiian section will provide you very interesting books. Originally, I visited passport renewal with my kids this time, but I would like to come back to read books. Safety, clean quiet reading section will be good for relaxing at Downtown Honolulu. Street parking with meter only. Passport renew is walk in only, so we wait 90 minutes to do all process for under 16 kids passport. 15 minutes from Waikiki by car.

Traveling around different places you can’t go wrong stopping by to the state library You will find what you looking for from a quick read to Hawaiian history.

This is adjacent to ʻIolani Palace and the Hawaiʻi State Capitol so since we were walking by we checked it out. This is a nice looking building which was completed in 1913, actually funded by Andrew Carnegie. Nice historical statue and information out front of Patsy Takemoto Mink, the first woman of color elected to the US House of representatives in 1964. Stop by the library and learn something, I like it.