What are Carnegie Libraries?

Carnegie Libraries are public libraries that were built with financial assistance from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. These libraries were funded by Carnegie's donations and were established across the United States and other countries during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Who was Andrew Carnegie?

Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist who made a fortune in the steel industry during the late 19th century. He believed in the importance of education and donated a significant portion of his wealth to fund the construction of public libraries, known as Carnegie Libraries.

Why did Andrew Carnegie fund libraries?

Andrew Carnegie believed that access to knowledge and education was vital for individual and societal progress. He funded libraries as a way to provide free access to books and learning resources to communities, particularly those that lacked access to educational opportunities.

How many Carnegie Libraries were built?

Between 1883 and 1929, Carnegie's donations led to the construction of over 2,500 libraries worldwide. The majority of these libraries were built in the United States, with others in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

What was the process to receive funding for a Carnegie Library?

Communities seeking funding for a Carnegie Library had to submit a formal application to Carnegie's foundation, providing details about their need for a library, willingness to maintain the library, and plans for site selection and ongoing funding. Carnegie's foundation would then review the application and approve or deny the request.

What were the architectural features of Carnegie Libraries?

Carnegie Libraries often featured neoclassical architectural styles, reflecting the prevailing design preferences of the time. Many were designed by prominent architects and showcased features like grand entrances, decorative facades, and large reading rooms with high ceilings and natural light.

Were all Carnegie Libraries the same?

While Carnegie Libraries shared the common purpose of providing public access to books and knowledge, their sizes and designs varied depending on the community's needs and available funding. Some libraries were smaller, single-room facilities, while others were larger, multi-story buildings.

Are Carnegie Libraries still in use today?

Many Carnegie Libraries are still in use today, serving as public libraries, community centers, museums, or other cultural institutions. Some have undergone renovations or expansions to accommodate modern needs, while others remain relatively unchanged.

Did Carnegie Libraries have any specific requirements or conditions?

Carnegie's donations often came with conditions. For example, communities were expected to provide a suitable site for the library, commit to maintaining the facility, and allocate a portion of their annual budget for library operations. Additionally, racial segregation was sometimes enforced in Carnegie Libraries, reflecting the social norms of the era.

What is the legacy of Carnegie Libraries?

The Carnegie Library initiative had a significant impact on public library development worldwide. It expanded access to education, promoted literacy, and served as a model for future library systems. The libraries continue to play a crucial role in communities by providing free access to knowledge and fostering a love of reading.

Historical Marker

Willits Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

85 East Commercial Street, Willits, California

( Marker is at the intersection of East Commercial Street and South Humboldt Street, on the right when traveling east on East Commercial Street.)

Built 1915

A brief timeline of the history of Carnegie Libraries

1881: Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist, begins his philanthropic efforts in library construction by donating funds to build the Braddock Library in Pennsylvania.
1883: The first "Carnegie Library" is officially established in Dunfermline, Scotland, Carnegie's birthplace. This library serves as a model for future Carnegie Libraries.
1886: Carnegie writes an article titled "Wealth," where he articulates his belief in philanthropy and the responsibility of the wealthy to give back to society.
1889: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is established with the aim of funding the construction of libraries across the United States and other English-speaking countries.
1893: The first Carnegie Library in the United States, the Carnegie Library of Braddock in Pennsylvania, is opened to the public.
Late 1890s to early 1900s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries spreads rapidly throughout the United States and other parts of the English-speaking world, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. The libraries are often designed by prominent architects and feature diverse architectural styles.
1901: The Carnegie Corporation of New York is founded as a philanthropic organization to manage and administer Andrew Carnegie's charitable projects, including the library program.
1902: Carnegie makes a significant endowment, donating $10 million to establish the Carnegie Institute in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Institute includes a library, an art gallery, and a natural history museum.
1917: Andrew Carnegie dies, leaving a lasting legacy of philanthropy, including the establishment of thousands of libraries around the world.
1920s-1930s: The construction of Carnegie Libraries gradually slows down, and the focus shifts to maintaining and updating existing libraries to meet changing community needs.
Late 20th century to present: Many Carnegie Libraries undergo renovations, expansions, or repurposing to adapt to modern library services and technological advancements. Some continue to operate as public libraries, while others have been transformed into cultural centers, museums, community spaces, or educational institutions.

The Carnegie Libraries have left an indelible mark on the accessibility of knowledge and education. They remain a testament to Andrew Carnegie's belief in the power of libraries to uplift communities and provide opportunities for personal and intellectual growth.

During World War II, California was home to several important military installations, including Naval Station Pearl Harbor and the Los Alamos National Laboratory. The state's aircraft manufacturing industry also played a crucial role in the war effort.

About Mendocino County

Mendocino County, located on the northern coast of California, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Pomo, Yuki, and Wappo, who relied on the region's abundant natural resources for their livelihoods. European exploration of the area began in the late 18th century, with Spanish and Russian explorers searching for trade routes and resources.

In the mid-19th century, Mendocino County experienced rapid development as settlers arrived during the California Gold Rush. Fort Bragg, a coastal town, was established as a military outpost in 1857 to protect the northern frontier and assist in gold mining operations. The timber industry also boomed during this time, as vast redwood forests were logged for lumber and shipbuilding.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Mendocino County saw significant growth in agriculture, particularly wine production. The area's Mediterranean-like climate and fertile soil attracted Italian and Swiss immigrants who established successful vineyards and wineries. The county became known for its award-winning grapes and wines, a reputation that continues to this day.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Mendocino County became associated with counterculture movements and a back-to-the-land movement. In the 1960s and 70s, many individuals seeking a more alternative lifestyle settled in the region, practicing communal living, organic farming, and advocating for environmental conservation.

Today, Mendocino County is known for its stunning natural beauty, including rugged coastlines, ancient redwood forests, and picturesque vineyards. The area's cultural heritage, from indigenous traditions to its history of logging and winemaking, is celebrated through museums, festivals, and local community initiatives. The county continues to be a popular destination for tourists, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, wine tasting, and cultural experiences.

Mendocino County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Mendocino County, California.

1850: Mendocino County is established on February 18th, making it one of the original 27 counties of California.
1852: The city of Mendocino is founded as a logging community.
1857: The first courthouse in Mendocino County is built in Ukiah.
1880s: The logging industry booms in Mendocino County, contributing to its economic growth.
1904: The Mendocino State Hospital, which later becomes known as the Mendocino Developmental Center, is established.
1939: The Golden Gate Bridge opens, connecting Mendocino County to the rest of California.
1964: The Point Arena-Stornetta Public Lands are designated as a public park, preserving natural coastal beauty.
1969: The Mendocino County Winegrape and Wine Commission is formed, sparking the growth of the wine industry in the county.
1970s-1980s: The emergence of the counterculture movement and the back-to-the-land movement attracts many alternative lifestyle followers to Mendocino County.
1990: The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens open in Fort Bragg, showcasing the region's diverse flora.
2017: Mendocino County experiences devastating wildfires, causing widespread destruction and loss.