The Hawai'i public library system finds itself in a situation similar to what confronted our public schools: Too much work to do, and too few trained people to do it.

Ironically, the funding shortage that forced the reduction in library hours two years ago has eased somewhat, and there's now money to pay more librarians so that hours of service could be restored. But no sooner do the libraries hire staff than more baby-boomer-era staffers retire.

The result is that curtailment of library services is likely to continue, a disappointing reality considering that the state has the resources to pay librarians and support staff.

What's needed is more aggressive recruitment at library schools, both at the University of Hawai'i and on the Mainland.

The teacher shortage of recent years spawned the development of a new teachers college at Hawai'i Pacific University to supplement the teacher certification training at UH-Manoa. Perhaps the demand for librarians could generate a similar process in the library-science field. Such an initiative would fill the needs identified in long-range plans. For the short term, we are left to improvise.

The state library system has done a better job in this regard in recent years, and staff and management has shown greater flexibility. Where in the past libraries closed for long holiday weekends, more often library officials now stagger schedules so that branches open at least in scattered areas.

They deserve public thanks for this approach, which must continue while a more lasting staffing solution is found. The libraries are an essential part of community life, and in an era that presents enough challenges to public education, it's a service that must remain vigorous.