State Library of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
SAIPAN, CNMI – The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL) is pleased to announce the reinstatement of its regular operating hours, effective Tuesday, August 19, 2025. The revised schedule is as follows:
Please note that the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library will remain closed on Sundays, Mondays, and all observed holidays.
Our dedicated and knowledgeable staff are always prepared to assist you with your library needs. The JKPL encourages all community members to visit during the newly reinstated hours to utilize its diverse resources, including books, periodicals, digital media, public computers, and various programs and events. Patrons are invited to access the public library’s complimentary resources by following JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, TikTok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and YouTube: joeten kiyu public library. Alternatively, please visit our website at www.cnmilib.org to view the progress and programs that JKPL has diligently worked to offer for our community. We are your premier destination for learning, entertainment, and community engagement. For further information regarding any of our activities, please contact JKPL at 670-235-7322/7318.
About the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library:
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library functions as a vital community hub in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, dedicated to promoting literacy, cultivating a love of reading, and providing access to information and technology for individuals of all ages. Through its extensive collection and diverse programs, the library endeavors to enrich the lives of its patrons and contribute to the cultural and educational development of the CNMI.
How can you help assist with our programs?
Hafa adai and Tirow community partners, sponsors, and donors! Want to learn how to help assist with our programs? We welcome and encourage businesses to consider donating to the Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under the Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.
This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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[Saipan, MP] — The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL) proudly announces the successful completion of its 2025 Summer Reading Program. With enthusiasm, creativity, and strong community involvement, this summer has been one to remember—for our staff, our partners, and most importantly, our young participants.
“To all the parents and guardians who entrusted us with your children—we thank you,” said Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi. “Your support allowed us to provide a safe, engaging, and meaningful summer experience that we hope left a lasting impact on their lives.”
Internet Camp: Learning Through Technology
JKPL’s Internet Camp wrapped up with an impressive 34 students enrolled across both Session A and Session B. Participants engaged in computer safety lessons and explored introductory coding games, creating a fun and educational environment that encouraged digital literacy.
Garapan Mihaville Estate Outreach Program: Creativity in the Community
The Garapan Mihaville Estate Outreach Program served 35 young learners, who attended with enthusiasm—even during challenging weather conditions. With the support of the Northern Marianas Housing Corporation, the program was hosted in a village space where children enjoyed painting, chalk art, sand art, and created their own power cord bracelets. Their joy and creativity truly “Colored Our World.”
Teen Service Program: Building Skills & Celebrating Growth
The Teen Service Program concluded on July 31, 2025, with 28 enthusiastic participants engaging in a dynamic series of hands-on activities aimed at building life skills and fostering personal growth. Highlights included a “Barista for a Day” experience at Latte Café, where our teens had the opportunity to view a fun work environment. Creative sessions featuring clay art, tie-dye bandanas, and custom button-making, as well as a variety of workshops and community service projects. The program culminated in a high-energy obstacle course hosted by Northern Marianas Athletics. Teens also had the pleasure of visiting the Office of U.S. Delegate Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds. Special thanks to Senior Policy Advisor Matthew Deleon Guerrero, District Director Paula Bermudes, Constituent Services Director Oliver Manglona and their team for coordinating the visit, warmly welcoming our group, and sharing insights into their work serving the community.
Participants shared overwhelmingly positive feedback. One teen remarked, “The staff are kind, and I like how homey the library can feel.” Others highlighted their favorite experiences: “My favorite part was my yummy free drink from Latte Café,” and “I enjoyed all the activities we did, even the games we played.” Another participant reflected, “I enjoyed meeting with old friends and making some new ones too.”
San Antonio Outreach: Learning, Creating, and Connecting
At the Fernando M. Benavente Memorial Library, also known as JKPL’s San Antonio Branch Library, 30 children participated in a three-week Summer Outreach Program filled with hands-on learning and creativity. Activities included chalk art, wood painting, tie-dye socks, bead making, bracelet crafting, and STEM-based experiments such as DIY slime and play-doh. An interactive presentation was also held by our special guest presenters, the CNMI Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services.
To cap off the final day of our summer outreach reading program, we ended on a high note with a joyful completion ceremony, indulged in a fun game and ended with a cozy indoor movie celebration. The children basked in the pride of their accomplishments, enjoying well-earned prizes, sweet treats, and the magic of their chosen film. After a summer filled with stories, creativity, and connection, what better way to celebrate than gathering with friends for a good movie?
Even more exciting, this summer’s programs collectively made an incredible impact—between the Teen Service Program, Children’s Program, Early Literacy Program, Internet Camp, and Outreach Summer Program, we served a remarkable total of 1,475 children throughout the season including our spectacular student volunteers. The joy, engagement, and curiosity sparked over these past weeks have been nothing short of inspiring. As the credits rolled and the final treat was shared, one thing was clear: our young participants can’t wait to find new ways to color our world at the library.
These summer programs reflect JKPL’s ongoing mission to provide accessible, enriching, and educational experiences to the youth of our community. We extend our sincere thanks to all the community partners, volunteers, and families who helped make this summer one filled with learning, joy, and inspiration.
Programs like these are essential in helping to prevent the “summer slide”—a seasonal loss of academic progress that can occur when students are out of school. Thanks to your support, we’ve helped keep young minds active, curious, and confident.
With Gratitude to Our Sponsors and Partners
This program was made possible thanks to the generous support of our community.
Platinum Donors:
Joeten Family, MS Villagomez/Kiyu Family, Office of the Governor Arnold I. Palacios, USDA, Institute of Museum and Library Services, Northern Marianas Library Association, Pacific Advisory Services, Veteran’s Vending Solutions, Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, Lollipops, Bridge Capital LLC, and associated organizations including Anaks Holding, Seven Leaves, FT Condo, Square and Compass, MP Investments, Coconut Capital, Westview Property, Mountain View Holdings, PROA, Latte Investments, Achugao Services, Excelsior Marianas, Mariana Holdings, and Fox Financial.
Gold Donors:
First Lady Wella Palacios, Speaker Edmund S. Villagomez, Rep. Vincent Diego F. Camacho, Rep. Vincent S. Aldan, D&Q International, Coca-Cola Beverage Micronesia, Leslie Bradley & Family, Bank Pacific Ltd., and Chong’s Corporation.
Silver Donor:
Dr. Elizabeth D. Rechebei
Bronze Donors:
Marianas Pacific Distributors Inc., J’s Restaurant, Blossoms Floral Depot, Patricia Aguon-Cruz, Commonwealth Library Council, McDonald’s of Saipan.
Community Partners:
Saipan Mayor’s Office, CNMI Public School System Child Nutrition Program, Department of Land and Natural Resources – Parks and Recreation, Sea Turtle Conservation Program, Brown Tree Snake Program, Northern Marianas Athletics, Run Saipan, Northern Marianas Housing Corporation, Department of Public Safety and its Canine Unit, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, 500 Sails, CNMI Historic Preservation Office, Friends of the Mariana Trench, and many more.
A Collective Achievement
“This program’s success is a direct result of your commitment to literacy, youth development, and community engagement,” said Library Director Erlinda C. Naputi. “We extend our deepest and sincerest thanks to all families, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and partners whose contributions helped create a fun, educational, and memorable summer for our young readers.”
We can’t wait to welcome more families and children to future programs. Until then—keep reading! For more information, please contact either Mrs. Celina C. Foreman or Ms. Sina Palacios at (670) 235-7315.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library works hard at developing innovative and enriching programs for our community. Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org and social media platforms: like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and Youtube: joeten kiyu public library. Effective Tuesday, June 17th, 2025, our temporary Summer Hours of Operations are as follows: Open Tuesday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Closed: Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.
HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?
We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.
This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL) is excited to announce the launch of its 2025 Summer Reading Program and Summer Outreach Programs under this year’s vibrant theme: “Color Our World.” These programs are designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading while promoting creativity, community, and learning for all ages.
The annual Summer Reading Program will run from June 17 to June 27, 2025, and is open to toddlers ages 0-5 (take-home package) and 6 to 12 years of age. This year, we are bringing books to life through engaging stories, fun crafts, and interactive activities that highlight the beauty and diversity of our world.
JKPL is also bringing the joy of reading beyond the library walls with its Summer Outreach Program starting from July 9 to August 1, 2025, offering activities for all age groups: toddlers (0–5), children (6–12), teens (13–17), and adults.
Outreach Location (please register at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library):
Teens looking to give back while gaining valuable experience are encouraged to join our Teen Service Program at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library from July 22 to August 1, 2025.
We can’t forget our invaluable Internet Camp for children ages 9-12 years old, that aims to teach computer literacy! Internet Camp is scheduled to begin with
Session A: July 8th-10th, 2025 from 9:30 a.m.– 12:00 p.m. and Session B: July
15th-17th, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
This year’s theme, “Color Our World,” is more than just crafts and creativity—it’s about building friendships, fostering community, and celebrating the power of books to open minds and hearts. JKPL’s summer programs are a cornerstone of literacy development, creativity, and lifelong learning.
Don’t miss out on a summer filled with fun, discovery, and imagination! We can’t wait to see how YOU color our world this summer!
Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at
www.cnmilib.org like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and Youtube: joeten kiyu public library or visit our website www.cnmilib.org to see the progress and programs JKPL has worked so hard to offer for our community. The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s hours of operation are as follows: Open Tuesday to Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday, 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.
Effective Tuesday, June 17th, 2025, our temporary Summer Hours of Operations are as follows: Open Tuesday to Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Closed: Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.
We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.
This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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Attention Library Patrons! The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is excited to announce its 2025 temporary summer hours, effective June 17, 2025. This adjustment to our schedule has been implemented to better accommodate summer activities and provide ample opportunities for you to enjoy our resources and services.
Temporary Summer Library Hours:
We’re Here to Serve You!
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to assist you with your library needs. Whether you’re looking for a good book, need help with research, or want to attend a program, we’re here to help. Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and YouTube: joeten kiyu public library or visit our website www.cnmilib.org to see the progress and programs JKPL has worked so hard to offer for our community. We invite you to visit the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library this summer and take advantage of all that we have to offer. We’re your go-to destination for learning, entertainment, and community connection. For more information regarding any of our activities, please contact JKPL @670-235-7322/7318.
HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?
Hafa adai and Tirow community partners, sponsors, and donors! Want to learn how to help assist with our programs? We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.
This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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Saipan, CNMI – The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL) proudly joined libraries across the nation in celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) with a spectacular two-day event filled with science, learning, and community engagement from May 9th to May 10th, 2025.
Day One: Empowering Through STEM Education (Friday, May 9th, 2025)
The celebration kicked off on Friday, May 9th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM with an exclusive STEM training led by Dr. Anne Holland, Director of the Education and Learning Research Group at the Space Science Institute, in collaboration with STAR Net. Dr. Holland shared a treasure trove of knowledge, tools, and strategies to help our staff better serve the community through STEM programming. Her generosity extended to the donation of three computers pre-loaded with cutting-edge STEM applications for use by library visitors of all ages.
Thanks to Dr. Holland, the Space Science Institute and the incredible support of STAR Net and the NSF, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library now has new resources to spark curiosity, innovation, and hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, and math throughout the year.
Day Two: STEM Day Extravaganza (Saturday, May 10th, 2025)
On Saturday, May 10th, JKPL transformed into a hub of excitement for STEM Day, featuring a series of enriching and interactive experiences for children and families.
We began with a special read-aloud in celebration of Law Week, featuring the U.S. District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands, Honorable Chief Judge Ramona Manglona, with Magistrate Judge Heather Kennedy having kicked off the legal-themed readings the week prior on May 3rd.
Dr. Anne Holland returned for a dynamic interactive read-aloud, captivating young minds before transitioning into hands-on solar science exploration.
Children had the rare opportunity to use a sun spotter, solar binoculars, and a solar telescope, expressing awe and amazement—many using such scientific instruments for the very first time!
Afterwards, participants returned to the Children of Our Homeland (a.k.a. Children’s Library) where they explored STEM activities using the newly donated computers. They learned about shadows, robotics, and engineering in a hands-on environment. A special highlight was a live demonstration by Arnel A. Gruspe, Systems Integrator and owner of STEMify CNMI Robotics & Automation, who introduced the children to programmable robotic kits—truly a moment of inspiration for future scientists and engineers.
No birthday celebration was complete without cake! A giant “Happy Birthday NSF” cake, delicious refreshments, and joyful conversations filled the library with warmth and community spirit.
The event concluded with a live video chat with the crew of the E/V Nautilus, as part of the Ship-to-Shore Interaction program. Participants had a unique opportunity for real-time Q&A with the Corps of Exploration, learning about the ongoing Mariana Arc Volcanic Exploration in the Western Pacific Ocean. Zooming live with the JKPL for this unforgettable segment were Mariana Trench Marine National Monument Superintendent Sean MacDuff and his companion, offering firsthand insights into ocean exploration and deep-sea science.
To wrap up the exciting day, families gathered for a screening of The Lego Movie 2—a fun and STEM-affirming film, which was perfect for the occasion.
A Heartfelt Thank You
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Anne Holland, U.S. National Science Foundation, STAR Net, and the Space Science Institute for making this unforgettable celebration possible. Their contributions have left a lasting impact on our library, our staff, and especially our young patrons. We are incredibly thankful for the tools, training, and enthusiasm that continue to inspire our community to explore, learn, and reach for the stars.
Please enjoy your friendly Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, X: @JoetenKiyu, and Youtube: joetenkiyu public library or visit our website www.cnmilib.org to see the progress and programs JKPL has worked so hard to offer for our community.
Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s hours of operation are as follows: Open Tuesday to Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.
HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?
We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.
This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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Saipan, CNMI – The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is proud to announce its participation in two exciting events this May: National Law Week and the National Science Foundation STEM Day Celebration. These separate celebrations highlight the library’s commitment to both civic education and STEM learning in our community.
National Law Week is an annual observance that celebrates the rule of law, promotes public understanding of the legal system, and highlights the importance of justice and individual rights. As part of Law Month, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is honored to host two special story time read-aloud sessions in the Children’s Library with Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona and Magistrate Judge Heather L. Kennedy. These sessions aim to educate young minds about the justice system in an engaging and accessible way.
NSF STEM DAY May 10th, 2025 beginning at 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Coinciding with the second Law Week story time, the library will also celebrate NSF STEM Day on May 10, 2025, in honor of the National Science Foundation’s 75th anniversary. This nationwide event unites libraries across the U.S. to engage their communities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
Chosen for its dedication to STEM learning and successful programming during the 2023–2024 solar eclipses, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library will join other Pacific region libraries in offering a full day of STEM-focused fun and learning.
This event is made possible through the STAR Library Education Network (STAR Net) and funded by the NSF (Grant #DRL-1906172). STAR Net Principal Investigator Dr. Anne Holland shared her excitement, “We’re thrilled to bring lessons from our programs to the Mariana Islands. Joeten-Kiyu stood out during the 2023 eclipse events, and we’re confident their impact will last well beyond this celebration.”
Library Director, Erlinda C. Naputi added, “We’re excited to be part of NSF STEM Day. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the community and inspire future generations of STEM learners. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating learning, discovery, and community.”
Mark your calendars and bring the family—whether you’re interested in the law, STEM, or both, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library has something for everyone this May!
Please enjoy your public library’s free resources by visiting our website at www.cnmilib.org like/follow JKPL’s Facebook page @joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Instagram@joetenkiyupubliclibrary, Tik Tok @jkpl670, Twitter @JoetenKiyu, and Youtube: joetenkiyu public library or visit our website www.cnmilib.org to see the progress and programs JKPL has worked so hard to offer for our community. The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library’s hours of operation are as follows: Open Tuesday to Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday 1:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and Holidays.
HOW CAN YOU HELP ASSIST WITH OUR PROGRAMS?
We welcome and encourage businesses to please consider donating Educational Tax Credit. Pursuant to NMI Public Law 15-120, the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is able to receive cash contributions under Educational Tax Credit (ETC). Please make checks payable to: CNMI Treasury. For MUNIS payments, to the Friends of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library MUNIS Vendor ID#100404.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services LS-256853-OLS-24.
This project was made possible in part by the USDA Rural Development Community Facilities Grant.
The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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