Hawai‘i Pacific University Library and Learning Commons serves the HPU community at two locations: 1) the Waterfront Library on the downtown campus; and 2) the Learning Commons at Aloha Tower Marketplace. The Waterfront Library is located in Waterfront Plaza, Building 6, Room 302. To access either facility, students and faculty must scan their HPU UniCard or UniCard Mobile ID.

The Waterfront Library holds the university’s physical collection and features designated spaces for both quiet studying and active collaboration. It includes computers, printers, Wi-Fi, two printers, PC laptops available for checkout, noise-canceling headsets for use in the library, and seven study rooms to support a range of learning styles.

The Learning Commons, located on the ground floor of Aloha Tower Marketplace, offers a modern, flexible environment for group learning, collaboration, and academic support. Students have access to PC and Mac computers, Wi-Fi, a printer, PC laptops available for checkout, and noise-canceling headsets to use in the space. Four collaborative meeting rooms are equipped with 60-inch monitors and web conferencing tools. A variety of workspaces accommodate both individual study and group projects.

Library services and resources are also available online via the HPU Library and Learning Commons website, including access to research guides, tutorials, digital collections, and research consultations.

Mission

Hawaiʻi Pacific University Library and Learning Commons is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment that advances student success, supports academic programs, and strengthens the university community. We provide resources, services, and spaces that empower students to achieve their academic and personal goals, support faculty in teaching and research, and encourage lifelong learning.

The Collections

The HPU Library and Learning Commons collections include academic databases, electronic and print books, periodicals (magazines, journals, and newspapers), and media. Print materials are housed in the Waterfront Library, with a focus on titles that support the University’s academic programs. All resources are accessible through the HPU Library and Learning Commons website, and many can also be reached via Library links in Blackboard. The Library also maintains the HPU Digital Collection Institutional Repository, which serves as an archive of the university’s scholarly and creative work.

Reference and Instruction Services

Reference and instruction services are provided by Library and Learning Commons librarians to support students and faculty through individual and class instruction sessions, as well as student group orientations. The Library and Learning Commons hosts workshops on research and publishing for both students and faculty. For off-campus access to research help, a 24/7 chat service is available via the Library and Learning Commons website and can also be accessed through course menus in Blackboard.

Access Services

General library services are offered, including item check-outs and check-ins, book delivery services, course reserved books and media from instructors, and interlibrary loan services.

Library and Learning Commons Hours

Hours vary by location and can be found on the Library and Learning Commons website under hours. Extended evening hours are provided prior to final examination periods during the major academic terms. Hours are generally shortened during the summer and winter terms. The Library and Learning Commons is closed on university-observed holidays.

Archives and Closed Collections

A specially designated room contains our university archives and various volumes of books that, because of their uniqueness and presentation of information, require special consideration and handling. Access to the materials in this room is by appointment only.