MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii’s public libraries are places for new beginnings. Whether you are applying for your first library card, learning new computer skills or planning a trip, the public library is the place where your story begins. National Library Week is April 10-16, 2011; join our public libraries and librarians to “Create your own story @ your library,” this year’s theme chosen by the American Library Association.

“Every day, Hawaii’s public libraries are helping people create their own unique stories,” said State Librarian Richard Burns. “Whether it is by opening a book to explore distant lands, or learning how to use new technologies to find a job, people in our libraries are creating new stories for themselves.”

Hawaii’s public libraries will host free programs throughout the month to celebrate National Library Week. Featured performers include:

Jeff Peterson

“The Slack Key Artistry of Jeff Peterson.” Peterson, a multiple Grammy Award and Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner, is recognized as one of Hawaii’s most versatile musicians. He is at the heart of today’s Hawaiian music scene. His focus on Slack Key guitar, classical, and jazz music has allowed him to develop a unique and transcendent voice on the guitar while remaining deeply rooted in the traditions of his Hawaiian heritage. Peterson will share his passion for the guitar in words and music at three selected Oahu and Maui libraries: April 9, 10:30 a.m. at Kapolei Public Library; April 20, 6:30 p.m. at Makawao Public Library; and April 21, 6:30 p.m. at Wailuku Public Library.

John Keawe

John Keawe, “A Tribute to Slack Key.” Keawe, a self-taught slack-key guitarist, is a multiple Na Hoku Hanohano and Hawaii Music Awards recipient and a contributing artist on Hawaii’s first Grammy winner, “Slack Key Guitar Volume 2” (2005). Keawe will offer a tribute to the slack key style and various artists at three selected Big Island and Maui libraries: April 12, 6:30 p.m. at Kihei Public Library; April 16, 1 p.m. at Kailua-Kona Public Library; and April 21, 6:30 p.m. at Keaau Public and School Library.

I. Made Widana and Anna Reynolds

I. Made Widana and Anna Reynolds, “The Music and Dance of Bali.” Performers Widana and Reynolds will demonstrate traditional Balinese music and dance. Gamelan, the traditional musical ensemble found in Bali, includes gongs, bronze metallophone instruments of various sizes, double-headed drums, and flutes. Experience the music and dance of Bali at six selected Big Island, Molokai, and Oahu libraries: April 13, 3 p.m. at Molokai Public Library; April 14: 9:30 a.m. at Laupahoehoe Public & School Library, and 5:30 p.m. at Honokaa Public Library; April 19, 6 p.m. at Kaimuki Public Library; April 25, 6:30 p.m. at Mountain View Public & School Library; April 30, 11 a.m. at Hawaii Kai Public Library.

Kealoha

Kealoha, “Slam Poetry.” Hawaii’s “unofficial slam poet laureate,” Kealoha is an internationally-acclaimed poet and storyteller. Slam poetry is a modern day form of performance poetry that is inspiring large audiences worldwide. Kealoha’s performances will combine poetry, storytelling, movement, music, theatre, and interactive speaking at four selected Big Island, and Oahu libraries: April 13, 6:30 p.m. at at Waimanalo Public and School Library; April 20, 6:30 p.m. at Mililani Public Library; April 21, 1 p.m. at Ewa Beach Public & School Library; and April 25, 4 p.m. at North Kohala Public Library.

Dave Thorne

Dave Thorne, “The Art of Cartooning.” Thorne is a professional cartoonist who works with the publishers of educational and humorous books. His work has been featured in cartooning exhibitions in Hawaii and on the mainland. Thorne will present various cartoon forms and demonstrate how cartoonists develop characters at four selected Big Island and Oahu libraries: April 13: 1:30 p.m. at Thelma Parker Memorial Public and School Library, and 5:30 p.m. at Kealakekua Public Library; April 16, 1 p.m. at McCully-Moiliili Public Library; and April 18, 3:30 p.m. at Kalihi-Palama Public Library.

Programs featuring storytellers and performing artists are recommended for all ages unless otherwise noted.

The Friends of the Library of Hawaii, Marriott Resorts Hawaii, Ko Olina Resort & Marina, Meadow Gold Dairies, HMS Host, Hansen Distribution Group, ING Foundation, Armstrong Produce Ltd., Bowman Connectivity Solutions, Inc., Girard’s Dressing, Roberts Hawaii Tours, Toshiba Business Solutions, and DFS Hawaii are sponsoring the National Library Week 20101programs. Additional funding and support is being provided by the University of Hawaii-Manoa Outreach College, Statewide Cultural Extension Program, the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Program schedules are subject to change.

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, crafters, and author talks. Visit the HSPLS website: www.librarieshawaii.org for a complete listing of National Library Week 2011 programs or call your local library to find out what programs will be offered.