Bond Library restoration

Restoration work at the old Bond Library in Kapaau, Hawaii
Restoration work at the old Bond Library in Kapaau, Hawaii
A sign at the old Bond Library in Kapaau, Hawaii

Back in 2019, I posted a bit about the old Bond Library (here), mentioning that there were plans to convert the old Bond Memorial Library to a cultural/historical museum.

When I was down that way a few weeks ago, I found that work is now underway on that project. The overgrown area around the building has been mostly cleared and it looks like the roof is receiving attention. The rest of the building looks pretty much unchanged, though.

I have to say that the $1,000,000 project goal seems steep for fixing the building, but I have no idea what construction costs are these days.

Windows at the old Bond Library in Kapaau, Hawaii

Hawaiian Hogfish

A Hawaiian Hogfish and a Yellow Tang in the waters off Hawaii

Mature Hawaiian Hogfishes usually live in deeper water, with the juveniles most often seen by snorkelers. But in my regular swimming spot, mature female Hawaiian Hogfishes, such as this one, can be seen regularly, if not frequently.

I also like the look of the Yellow Tang in this photo. “Why is she following me? Why won’t she leave me alone?”

Waipi’o Valley view

A view of Waipio Valley in Hawaii

A view across Waipi’o Valley from the road into the valley. This road has been closed to visitors for some time, because of rockfalls from the steep slopes above it. A project to improve the road recently finished its first phase, but it’s likely to be a few years before the road is opened to anyone other than residents, licensed tour operators, and native Hawaiians exercising traditional rights. Even then, it’s not clear what access will be permitted.

One thing this means is that the (strenuous) Muliwai Trail, into the next door Waimanu Valley, is currently closed and is likely to be so for some time, if it ever reopens. That trail can be seen (very faintly) making a zigzag up the steep slope on the far side of the valley.