Celebrating Love My Library Day and Library Advocacy Month in Hawaiʻi

by Krystal Kakimoto, HLA Advocacy Committee Co-Chair

Libraries have always been a sanctuary of knowledge, imagination, and community. On August 5, 2023, book lovers, families, and library enthusiasts gathered at Ala Moana Beach Park to celebrate Love My Library Day. This event not only highlighted the importance of libraries but also marked a significant moment in the state's dedication to library advocacy. Governor Josh Green proclaimed August 2023 as Library Advocacy Month in Hawaiʻi, shedding light on the critical role libraries play in our lives and communities.

Why Governor Green's Proclamation Matters
Governor Josh Green's proclamation of Library Advocacy Month is a testament to the enduring significance of libraries. It recognizes that libraries are more than just buildings filled with books; they are essential hubs of learning, community engagement, and cultural enrichment.

Here are a few reasons why this proclamation matters:

1. Promoting Literacy: Libraries provide free access to a wealth of information, encouraging lifelong learning, and literacy. By designating August as Library Advocacy Month, Governor Green emphasizes the importance of reading and education in the state.
2. Community Building: Libraries serve as gathering places where people from all walks of life can come together to connect, learn, and collaborate. This proclamation underscores the role of libraries in fostering strong, vibrant communities.
3. Access to Resources: Libraries offer a wide array of resources, from books and e-books to internet access and educational programs. This initiative highlights the importance of equitable access to these resources for all residents of Hawaiʻi.
   
   

Get involved in library advocacy!
If you are passionate about libraries and want to contribute to their growth and development, there is a way to get involved. Join the grassroots committee dedicated to projects like Love My Library Day and Library Advocacy Month. This committee is actively looking for volunteers and individuals who share their love for libraries and their dedication to making them even more vibrant and accessible.

To join the grassroots committee, please email Krystal Kakimoto at [email protected].

View the Governor's Proclamation