The board that oversees Hawaii's public libraries was told Thursday about a proposal to close five libraries statewide to deal with budget cuts.

The libraries that could be closed are Ewa Beach on Oahu, Holualoa, Pahala and Kealakekua on the Big Island, and Hana on Maui.

"I'm looking at the savings, non-personnel cost, to close Hana. You are only saving $20,100," Lei Ahu Isa of the Board of Education said.

Board of Education member Mary Cochran pointed out that Hana residents would have to drive more than two hours to get to the nearest library if theirs is closed.

She questioned why an urban library in Honolulu wasn't recommended for closure.

"In my observation, each library is 5 to 10 minutes driving distance from the main library and each other," Cochran said. "The main library has a bus line in front of the main library and between libraries there are several school libraries."

The proposal to close the libraries will be open to public comment when the board meets on July 16.