A University of Hawaii at Manoa professor of Hawaiian studies will discuss the evolution of the Kamehameha Day celebration since its beginnings in 1872 during a free event from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at the Lahaina Public Library.

Ronald Williams’ oral history that is included in the book “Civil Society in West Maui” captures themes and personal stories from the first celebration, through the creation of the first Lahaina celebration in 1948, to present day.

“Dr. Williams’ work is important because the study of local history allows us to connect more deeply to life in the past,” said Lance Collins, the book’s editor.

A question-and-answer session and book signing will follow the discussion.

The free informational talk story is the final in a series focusing on community-oriented solutions to issues in West Maui.

For more information, visit librarieshawaii.org/events.