Learning Commons and Libraries

Comprised of two facilities (for the Academy and Junior School), the K – 12 Learning Commons are an extension of every classroom and the hub of collaborative and creative energies on campus, magnifying the applied learning that helps our students to succeed.

In the K – 12 Learning Commons, students:

Build congruency between their experiences in school and the world;
Have access to the space and resources (books, technology, creative tools and people) that help them to transform their questions into work that addresses real problems and audiences;
Collaborate with other students and teachers from different classes, grades and disciplines;
Learn from outside experts and mentors who can broaden their thinking about relevant, real-world questions.

In the K – 12 Learning Commons, faculty:

Have a shared gathering space that facilitates partnership across grade levels and disciplines;
Belong to a thriving community of professional development resources and programs;
Work with Hawai‘i, mainland and international-based partners to explore essential questions and new approaches to education at Punahou and beyond.

We are so excited for our new Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons, which is expected to open in 2026.

Learn More

Academy

Located in Cooke Library in the Academy (grades 9 – 12), the Cooke Learning Commons is a place for active and collaborative work as well as quiet individual study. Resources include the Cooke Collection of books, ebooks and research databases, as well as makery supplies, photography equipment, and more. Students can get help with research projects, makery projects, homework (in the Peer Learning Center), or making a video (in the Punavision room). Students can also engage with the Punahou community and the wider community through special events including guest artists and speakers, poetry readings, exhibits, and much more.

Learn more about the plan for the future of the Mary Kawena Pukui Learning Commons here.

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Junior School

The K – 8 Junior School Library in Kosasa is a space where junior school students can focus on individual work, collaborate with peers and faculty, foster a love of literature, access research resources, and develop into lifelong library users.

The K – 8 Junior School Library in Kosasa houses two collections, the Grade 5 – 8 Library Collection and the Julia Ing Collection for Young Readers (for Kindergarten – grade 4). Students and their families are invited to visit the library to enjoy the books and rich resources available.