MEDIA RELEASE

In response to unprecedented budget restrictions that threaten to close public libraries, the Hawaii State Public Library System (HSPLS) and the Friends of the Library of Hawaii (FLH) have teamed up to kick off the 2009 “Keep Your Library Open!” and “Keep the Doors Open!” fund-raising campaigns in a joint News Conference at the Hawaii State Library.

“The Hawaii State Public Library System does not often ask for monetary support from the community,” said Garrett Toguchi, Board of Education Chairperson. “However, Hawaii’s public libraries are faced with extraordinary circumstances, and I would like to encourage everyone to support these fundraisers during these difficult economic times.”

Hawaii’s public libraries are family destinations and community cultural centers which support learners of all ages. Libraries are part of the solution, helping residents cope with and recover from today’s declining economy.

“Libraries provide outstanding value at bargain prices: offering statewide access to more than 3.5 million items; Internet access; electronic books and databases; business, health, and e-government services; assistance with job searches; educational support for students of all ages, and allowing residents and visitors to keep in touch with family and friends on the mainland and abroad,” said State Librarian Richard Burns.

Patrons are invited to make a monetary donation to their local library through the “Keep Your Library Open!” fund-raising campaign. Tax-deductible contributions will be used to support the operations of the Hawaii State Public Library System such as purchasing library materials, providing funds for core services and programs, and for other operational expenses. Only checks will be accepted.

Make checks payable to: Hawaii State Public Library System; write the name of the designated library on check memo line and mail to: Office of the State Librarian, Administrative Services Branch, 44 Merchant St., Honolulu, HI 96813.

The goal of the Friends of the Library of Hawaii’s “Keep the Doors Open!” fund-raiser is to do just that – to keep open the doors of all 51 Hawaii public libraries.

“The Friends of the Library of Hawaii are inviting everyone across the state – past, current or future library patrons – to donate $3.00 for this worthy cause,” said Susan Li, FLH President. “Although we believe that many patrons will chose to give more, the campaign is designed so that everyone will feel that this small amount is something that they can contribute and be a part of this grassroots effort.”

The Friends have formed a partnership with Bank of Hawaii, and established a special account: all donations will be applied towards HSPLS’ mounting operational costs.

“The ‘Keep the Doors Open!’ campaign will offer patrons multiple options for supporting the Hawaii State Public Library System,” said Byrde Cestare, FLH Executive Director. “Your tax-deductible donation will help us keep our libraries open.”

There are several ways that you can donate:

• Send cash or a check payable to: Friends of the Library of Hawai`i; mail to: Friends of the Library of Hawaii, 690 Pohukaina Street, Honolulu, HI 96813. Write “Keep the Doors Open!” in the check’s memo line.
• Visit the Friends’ Web site: www.friendsofthelibraryofhawaii.org to donate online by using your credit card. The fundraiser’s overall donation amount will be posted on the website.
• Call the Friends’ office at 536-4174 and use your credit card over the phone.
• Visit any Bank of Hawaii branch, and make your donation to the “Keep the Doors Open!” campaign for Hawaii’s public libraries.