Joann D’Addio, a retired high school teacher from Chicago, relocated to Kailua-Kona in
2017. Drawing on her teaching experience, she soon began offering knitting classes in
her new community. Having first learned to knit from an eighth-grade friend, Joann
collaborated with a former Kailua-Kona branch manager to launch a monthly knitting
program at the library. With support from Friends of the Libraries, Kona (F.O.L.K.) and
yarn donations from the public, Joann provides all necessary supplies—such as library-
loanable knitting needles—so beginners can participate without incurring costs.
Joann introduces her students to knitting by starting with making simple dishcloths
before moving on to more advanced items. While online tutorials like YouTube videos
are available, Joann notes that learning with a small group setting often leads to better
results. Her classes draw participants of all backgrounds, including men, mothers with
children, and retirees.
Beyond her monthly library class, Joann’s Needlework Circle meets monthly on the
Kailua-Kona library lanai to create items like baby caps, which are included in the
“Books For Babies” bags provided to every newborn at Kona Community Hospital. The
group also knits chemo caps for cancer patients using a very soft yarn.
For information about upcoming classes or Needlework Circle meetings, check the
Kailua-Kona library calendar or ask at the lobby desk, as schedules change monthly.
Joann also dedicates one day a week sharing her expertise at Quilt Passions.
Currently, Kealakekua library offers Joann’s knitting class monthly but hasn’t yet begun
a Needlework Circle meeting since the demand is not yet there.
Thank you, Joann, for all you do for our community.
If you’re interested in sharing your own passion at the library, consider reaching out—it’s
a meaningful way to make connections and give back to the community.