Manoa library gets funds for expansion

The second-smallest public library on Oahu is slated for expansion thanks to funding released by Gov. Linda Lingle.

"We're so happy. What happened is, back in 1978, people started asking for a bigger library. It's been that long that we've been waiting," said Jan Kamiya, acting manager for Manoa Public Library, at 2716 Woodlawn Drive.

Lingle recently released $6.5 million to go toward design and construction for the library's expansion.

The 6,500-square-foot library was built in 1944 and has an average annual circulation of about 190,000. It is the 10th busiest of Oahu's 24 public libraries but is the second smallest after Waialua Public Library, Kamiya said.

According to Keith Fujio, administrative services officer for the state's libraries, the Manoa library is undersized by about 16,430 square feet. Parking is also limited.

Architectures Plus Inc. was recently selected by the state to work on the expansion. The project includes additional parking, site improvements, interior renovations and more space to broaden the library's collection.

Kamiya said they hope to have separate children's and meeting rooms built. "We're a one-room library. The sound carries," Kamiya said.

The library is closed until Jan. 30 for improvements to meet federal disability standards.

Design of the library's expansion is expected to be completed in September. Construction is scheduled to start in February 2007.

Fujio said they are looking into expanding Hanapepe Public Library in Kauai and Makawao Public Library on Maui. State library officials are also slated to build a new 6,000-square-foot public library in Kohala on the Big Island.