Kahuku Librarian Is The Best
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The recipe for a healthy library isn’t so much the books, but getting the people to actually set foot inside.
That’s a challenge that Fran Corcoran took on in rural Kahuku,and her five-year plan must be working. Last month she was named Public Librarian of the Year by the Friends of the Library of Hawaii.
“I’m really choked up about the honor, because I’m the new kid on the block,“admitted Corcoran, manager of the Kahuku Public & School Library since 2005 and an area resident for 14 years. “I’m proud of the programs we have that pull in different factions of this community.
There wasn’t much going on in Kahuku for the general public, and nothing to do at night,reasoned the Chicago native, so she created activities.“I stole ideas from all the other librarians so people would know there’s something happening every Tuesday night, like it or not.“A recent series of talks on GMO and organic foods, for example, drew more than 40 guests from both sides of the issue.
In honoring the veteran librarian and teacher, the Friends gave her a cash award and a $500 gift card for the library, pointing out that Corcoran has done “a tremendous job bringing the community into the library by showcasing the talents and skills of Kahuku residents (cooking,healing,crafts,etc.)”
Her work has attracted corporate help and a strong support base that’s essential to the bottom line.Specifically, FLH cited her campaign to revive the area’s bookmobile service with donations from Turtle Bay Resort and others. The colorful, renovated tour bus now makes stops each Monday along the Windward coast up to Sunset Beach.
Located at Kahuku High School, the library also sponsors DVD matinees for long-term care patients at Kahuku Hospital.“About three to five of the ladies come over with two nurses in a Handivan,” Corcoran said. “It’s an out-reach we’re able to offer because we’re so close.
“It’s fun, you know, and it’s a wonderful community.”
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