The project will establish a new digital archive to preserve, organize, and expand access to molokai's historical collection through community-based library and archival services

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded Ka IPU Makani Cultural Heritage Center $135,000 on October 1, 2026, under the Native American and Native Hawaiian Library Services program (CFDA 45.311) to establish a digital archive preserving Molokai's historical collections and expanding public access through community-based library and archival services.

The project will process and describe unprocessed photographs, newspaper clippings, historical records, and three-dimensional objects; rehouse and organize two significant collections; develop a public interpretive exhibit with labels; and purchase archival preservation supplies. Deliverables include a functional digital archive, processed and rehoused collections, and a completed interpretive exhibit. The work is performed in Kaunakakai, Hawaii, and runs through September 30, 2027.

Ka IPU Makani Cultural Heritage Center, a Native Hawaiian-owned nonprofit and 501(c)(3) organization located on Molokai, serves as the recipient. The center functions as a cultural infrastructure entity supporting heritage preservation and community-based initiatives that engage Molokai residents as stewards of local history. Expected outcomes include improved long-term stewardship and preservation of community historical resources, enhanced public access to the island's history, and strengthened partnerships encouraging residents and organizations to entrust additional materials for long-term care.

Funding will support staff-led processing and description of unprocessed photographs, newspaper clippings, historical records, and three-dimensional objects, as well as rehousing and organizing two significant collections. The project will also support the development of a public exhibit featuring interpretive labels, along with the purchase of archival preservation supplies and exhibit printing. Deliverables include a functional digital archive, processed and rehoused collections, and a completed interpretive exhibit. Expected outcomes include improved long-term stewardship, preservation, and public access to community historical resources, and strengthened partnerships that encourage residents and organizations to entrust additional materials for long-term care. Primary beneficiaries are the residents of the moloka'i, who will gain increased opportunities to discover, engage with, and preserve their island's history.