Official Statement on the Passing of the Honorable Governor Arnold I. Palacios
Joeten-Kiyu Public Library and the Commonwealth Library Council
It is with profound sadness and heartfelt respect that the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library (JKPL) and the Commonwealth Library Council (CLC) join the people of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in mourning the passing of our beloved Governor, the Honorable Arnold I. Palacios.
Governor Palacios was a dedicated public servant whose lifelong commitment to the people of the CNMI was marked by humility, integrity, and visionary leadership. His unwavering support for education, culture, and public service leaves behind a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire future generations.
Governor Palacios played an active and visible role in celebrating literacy and learning. He graciously participated in our annual National Library Week Proclamation Signing events, reaffirming the importance of libraries in public life. He championed cultural programming initiatives that preserved and promoted our rich indigenous heritage and ensured they remained accessible to all.
His administration’s support led to tangible improvements in library services across the CNMI. Under his leadership:
- The Joeten-Kiyu Public Library received critical support for its solar power photovoltaic (PV) project, advancing our commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.
- Public libraries on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota saw upgrades in furniture and public-use infrastructure, creating safer and more welcoming learning environments.
- Governor Palacios encouraged and facilitated professional development opportunities for library staff, helping build capacity and strengthen library services across the islands.
- Governor Palacios actively supported Bookmobile Outreach Services, recognizing their vital role in reaching underserved and remote communities.
- Governor Palacios stood firmly behind the continued operations and development of the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, the Fernando M. Benavente Memorial Library(San Antonio, Saipan), the Tinian Public Library, the Antonio C. Atalig Memorial Library (Rota), and our Bookmobiles serving Saipan and Rota.
Governor Palacios believed in the power of libraries not only as places of knowledge, but as spaces of community, culture, and opportunity. His support has left an indelible mark on our institutions, our team, and most importantly, the people we serve.
As we honor his legacy, we remain forever grateful for his enduring support and belief in the transformative power of literacy, access to information, and lifelong learning. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire CNMI community.
May Honorable Governor Arnold I. Palacios rest in eternal peace. His vision and dedication will live on in the lives he touched and the libraries he helped flourish.
Respectfully,
Erlinda C. Naputi, Library Director, Joeten-Kiyu Public Library
Charles V. Cepeda, Chairman, Commonwealth Library Council
Commonwealth Library Council:
Ivan Mereb, Vice Chairman
Shigeki Tenorio
Lareyna Norita Camacho
Patrick Palacios Sablan
Julie Barcinas Sablan