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

Old Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

122 North Lumpkin Street, Cuthbert, Georgia

( Marker is at the intersection of North Lumpkin Street and Pearl Street, on the right when traveling north on North Lumpkin Street.)

Marker installed: 2001

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.

Georgia has a strong military history and has been the site of several important military installations, including Fort Benning, which is home to the U.S. Army Infantry School.

About Randolph County

Randolph County, located in southwestern Georgia, has a rich and fascinating history dating back to its establishment in 1828. The county was named after the prominent Virginia legislator and senator, John Randolph of Roanoke. For centuries prior to European settlement, the land was inhabited by the Creek Indians until US settlers arrived in the early 19th century.

The early settlers in Randolph County primarily relied on agriculture, particularly cotton, as their main source of income. The county's fertile soils and warm climate made it an ideal location for cotton cultivation, leading to rapid growth and prosperity. Slavery was widely practiced in Randolph County during this period, as enslaved Africans were used as a source of labor on the plantations.

During the American Civil War, Randolph County witnessed significant conflict and upheaval. As part of the Confederacy, the county played a strategic role due to its close proximity to key transportation routes. Numerous battles and skirmishes occurred in the region, resulting in devastating damage and loss of life. After the war, the county faced immense challenges in terms of reconstruction and economic recovery.

In the 20th century, Randolph County continued to rely on agriculture, but with a shift towards diversified crops and livestock production. The county also witnessed important advancements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Today, Randolph County remains a predominantly rural area, encompassing a close-knit community that values its history and cultural heritage.

Randolph County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Randolph County, Georgia.

1807: Randolph County is established on December 20.
1830s: The Creek Indians are removed from the area through the Indian Removal Act.
1841: Cuthbert is established as the county seat.
1850s: The county experiences significant growth due to the expansion of the railroads.
1861-1865: Randolph County citizens actively participate in the American Civil War.
1870s-1880s: The county's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with large plantations producing cotton and tobacco.
1920s: The Boll Weevil infestation devastates the county's cotton industry.
1960s: The Civil Rights Movement impacts Randolph County, leading to desegregation and equal rights for African Americans.
2000s: The county focuses on economic diversification and community development.