A 70-year old Hawaiian tradition; one I sorely miss!

Heading to Hawaii anytime soon? Skip the Luau and try The Friends of the Library of Hawaii bookstore sale in Kakaako on the Island of Oahu! While living 14 years on the islands, I looked forward to this annual event like Christmas or a birthday. One of the oldest continuously running book sales in the country, 2020 would have marked their 73rd year if not postponed due to the pandemic.

Past events I attended were held at the McKinley High School in Honolulu for a 10-day stretch each June (pictured at top.) I usually left with a bag full of mysteries, only to come back for one or two more glorious days of hunting. However, that’s all changed now due to safety concerns, but not all for bad! For 2021 they have opened Village Books & Music across from Ward Center shopping plaza, downtown Honolulu. Opening February 27th, the store will remain opened until June–That’s over 3 months of sales (still two left!)

Ecompassing much more than books, the booksale will feature a selection of CDs, DVDs, comics and manga, and many more hard-to-find items. The store is conveniently located at the former Pier 1 Imports space at 1142 Auahi Street, Honolulu. Ample parking is available in the adjacent structure. 

from the Friend of the Library Hawaii website

BUT WAIT–THEY’VE GONE ONLINE! Hardcover books at $3-$4 and paperbacks around $2 in over 120 separate categories: from “Anthropology-to-Horror,” Large Print-and-Laser Discs,” “Mystery-to-Young Adult.” (Yes! Laser discs at $10ea, remember those?) Curbside pickup available or shipping at the buyers expense! https://friendsofthelibraryofhawaii.org/category/sales/annualbooksale/

There is a very worthwhile ancillary value when you shop the sale. You will be contributing to the success of 51 public libraries throughout the islands. You don’t want to miss this event…it’s Paradise!

“He who listens to the chatter outside the window, and neglects his books, is but a donkey in clothes”

Charlie Chan, Keeper of The Keys (1932), Chapter 11