Oahu Attraction Guide

Hawaii State Library

Hawaii State Library is a historic Carnegie-funded landmark in downtown Honolulu, next to Iolani Palace and home to Hawaii and Pacific research collections.

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Hawaii State Library, Oahu

Located in downtown Honolulu next to the Iolani Palace, the Hawaii State Library serves as the seat of the Hawaii State Public Library System, which is the only statewide library system and one of the largest in the United States. It is a historic building that was funded by Andrew Carnegie and designed by architect Henry D. Whitfield. The building was completed after two years of construction in 1913. In 1978, the Hawaii State Library building was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The building holds more than 525,000 cataloged books, and the entire Hawaii State Public Library System has a collection of more than 3 million books. The nearby Hawaii State Archives has book collections of historical significance to Hawaii. The bronze sculptures at the lawn in front of the building were cast by Barbara Hepworth. They are called Parent I and Young Girl.

Key Features

Historic Carnegie-funded library building in downtown Honolulu
Opened to the public on February 1, 1913
Flagship of the Hawaii State Public Library System
Located at 478 South King Street next to Iolani Palace
Known for Hawaii and Pacific research materials
Includes the Edna Allyn Room children's collection
Federal Documents Section has been a Selective Federal Depository Library since 1929
Authorized Passport Acceptance Facility with separate passport processing details
Current branch hours vary by weekday, with Sunday closure
Metered parking nearby; downtown parking can be limited

Hawaii State Library

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Hawaii State Library historically important?

The present building opened on February 1, 1913, with financial help from Andrew Carnegie, making it one of Honolulu's notable civic landmarks.

What special collections are inside Hawaii State Library?

The library is known for its Hawaii and Pacific Section, the Edna Allyn Room children's collection and Federal Documents resources.

What makes the library easy to combine with other downtown stops?

It sits beside Iolani Palace and close to the Hawaii State Capitol, King Kamehameha Statue and other historic Honolulu landmarks.

Does Hawaii State Library handle passports?

Yes. Hawaii State Library is listed as an authorized Passport Acceptance Facility, but passport processing hours and requirements are separate from regular branch visits.

What should visitors notice about the building?

Look for the formal civic architecture, courtyard setting and historic details that connect the library with Honolulu's early 20th-century public buildings.