MEDIA RELEASE

Janice Terukina

National Library Week, a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries, librarians and library workers in schools, campuses and communities nationwide – is the perfect time to discover how worlds connect at your library.

This year, National Library Week is April 12-18, and public libraries statewide will host special free programs throughout the month in celebration. The American Library Association selects the theme for this special week, and for 2009 they have chosen “Worlds connect @ your library.”

Hawaii’s public libraries will offer programs featuring popular storytellers and performing artists. The Friends of the Library of Hawaii and the University of Hawaii-Manoa Outreach College, Statewide Cultural Extension Program, are sponsoring the National Library Week 2009 programs.

The National Endowment for the Arts and the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts are providing additional funding for four featured performers.

Storyteller Janice Terukina will be a featured performer at 12 selected Oahu, Big Island and Maui public libraries from April 8-29.

Terukina, a veteran actress from Honolulu, has appeared in numerous stage, film and television roles in Hawaii, and performed with the East West Players in Los Angeles. She will share “Island Kine Stories”: humorous “local style” folktales, poetry and participatory games from around the world at the following Big Island libraries:

• April 13, 6:30 p.m. at Bond Memorial Public Library (889-6655)
• April 14: 9:30 a.m. at Honokaa Public Library (775-8881), and 1 p.m. at Laupahoehoe Public & School Library (962-2229)

This 45-minute program is recommended for preschool age and older. Contact the hosting library as soon as possible if a sign language interpreter or other special accommodation is needed.

In addition, other public libraries will host programs featuring noted local storytellers, performing artists, author talks and informational speakers. Program schedules are subject to change. Visit the HSPLS website: www.librarieshawaii.org for a current listing of National Library Week 2009 programs or call your local library to find out what programs will be offered.