Construction on the Keaʻau-Mountain View Public Library begins this week

In the next two years, Puna’s new public library will enhance residents’ accessibility to larger book collections and modern community spaces.

State and county leaders gathered at the site of the future Keaʻau-Mountain View Public Library to break ground and celebrate the upgraded facility that be more accessible to residents living south of Hilo.

The 13,885-square-foot Keaʻau-Mountain View Public Library is intended to replace the two public libraries serving upper Puna, which are attached to Keaʻau Middle School and Mountain View Elementary School.

According to the Hawaiʻi State Public Library System, the two current public libraries are considered outdated and too small to accommodate the growing Puna population. Since they are attached to schools, residents are also restricted by conflicts such as operational hours and school security.

While the new library will still sit on the Keaʻau Middle School property, it is completely separate and fenced off from the school.

“This new library is next to the school, but is separate and will be much more accessible to the public,” said State Librarian Stacey A. Aldrich. “The building is much bigger with many more sections for people to choose from and at least four meeting rooms that will be open for anyone to use.”

The main library space will feature modular shelves and furnishings that can be reconfigured as needs evolve and an up-to-date technology lab.

There will also be a separate, larger community meeting room with an outdoor lanai that can be reserved for special functions, including after hours. Currently, 42 parking spaces are planned and can be accessed from a separate driveway system from the middle school.

While library users will not have to enter the school to access the library, sidewalks will be built connecting the library to the school for students. The library will otherwise be separated from the school by a fence.

“We’re really happy to begin construction on this new library,” Aldrich said. “The growing community deserves a library that is accessible and a true hub for reading, learning and connecting with others.”

Construction on the building is beginning this week in the vacant lot adjacent to the existing Keaʻau Public and School Library at 16-571 Keaʻau-Pāhoa Road. The $20 million project is expected to take at least two years.