MEDIA RELEASE

The University of Hawaii at Hilo will soon welcome its $4 million state-of-the-art College Campus Store, which is scheduled to open in the fall.

“Construction is about 90 percent complete,” project manager Michael Murakami said. “We’ve still got some painting to do and furniture to install, but that should wrap up in August.”

The one-story addition to the Campus Center spans 8,500 square feet with a configured layout that includes textbook, computer, apparel and café areas.

It will replace the existing Bookstore located near the Old Gym as the primary outlet for the sale of textbooks, materials, school supplies, various merchandise including Vulcan logo clothing, sundry items, snacks, computers, and computer accessories.

The hours of operation will be 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, with extended seasonal hours. An official grand opening is expected to be held in the fall.

“The store’s close proximity to the new Student Services Building, combined with the goods and services it offers will provide students with an added element of convenience,” said Jason Tanaka, College Campus Store manager. “That will enable them to get more of the things they need in the same, general area.”

It is also expected to become a popular gathering place to relax, work, study and socialize. The store will offer a variety of amenities ranging from contemporary furniture to computers with free internet access and a big screen television featuring University news, public information and merchandise offerings.

Among the merchandise displays will be one dedicated to products developed, labeled, and marketed by students in UH Hilo’s Business classes, along with those from other UH campuses.

The College Campus Store was developed with input from students, faculty, staff and community members and financed through University of Hawaii Revenue Bonds with debt service supported by Bookstore revenues.