Papahana Kuaola

Papahana Kuaola, a cultural learning center located on 63 acres in He‘eia, a rural community on O‘ahu, will develop a culture-based literacy program that emphasizes traditional Hawaiian mo’olelo (myths and legends) and incorporates Hawaiian cultural practices, traditional arts, language, and knowledge. Educational materials and activities focusing on three mo’olelo will be created for school groups from O‘ahu in Grades 3, 4, and 5. Staff will identify cultural objects from the Papahana Kuaola collection as well as natural resources from its gardens that support the theme of the stories. Activities will take place in large and small groups in indoor and outdoor settings. This project will demonstrate to librarians, educators, and parents how culture-based education can be successfully incorporated into library literacy programs. As a result, participants will gain increased knowledge and understanding of their cultural environment as well as skills to perpetuate Hawaiian traditions and values.