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

Sullivan Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

100 South Crowder Street, Sullivan, Indiana

( Marker is on South Crowder Street north of Thompson Street, on the right when traveling south.)

Marker installed: 2008

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.

The first long-distance auto race in the United States was held in Indiana in 1911. The race, called the Indianapolis 500, is still held annually and is one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

About Sullivan County

Sullivan County, located in the western part of Indiana, has a rich history that dates back to its settlement in the early 19th century. The area was first explored by French traders in the 18th century, but it wasn't until the early 1800s that permanent settlements began to form. The county was officially established on January 20, 1817, named in honor of American Revolutionary War General Daniel Sullivan.

During the mid-19th century, Sullivan County experienced a rapid increase in population and economic growth. The discovery of extensive coal reserves in the area led to the development of a thriving mining industry. Numerous mines were established, attracting workers from across the region and contributing to the county's prosperity.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought further development to Sullivan County. Railroads were constructed, connecting the county to regional and national markets and facilitating the transportation of coal, timber, and other goods. The county became known for its agricultural production, particularly in the cultivation of corn and wheat.

In the 20th century, Sullivan County faced the challenges of economic fluctuations and shifts in industry. The decline of the coal mining industry in the mid-20th century had a significant impact on the county's economy, leading to a decrease in population and job opportunities. However, efforts to diversify the local economy have been made, with a focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

Today, Sullivan County continues to be a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and community spirit. Its rich history and resilience are celebrated through various museums, festivals, and attractions, attracting visitors from near and far. The county's past serves as a testament to the perseverance and adaptability of its residents, and a reminder of the importance of embracing change while honoring tradition.

Sullivan County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sullivan County, Indiana.

Sullivan County, Indiana is founded in 1817.
In 1838, Sullivan County experiences a smallpox epidemic.
The county courthouse in Sullivan is completed in 1843.
During the Civil War, several soldiers from Sullivan County join the Union Army.
In 1871, the first coal mine is opened in the county.
The Sullivan County Historical Society is founded in 1898.
In 1907, the first automobile is registered in the county.
The Great Depression hits the county hard in the 1930s.
During World War II, many residents of Sullivan County serve in the military.
In 1961, the county's first hospital, Sullivan County Community Hospital, is opened.
The Sullivan County Park and Lake is established in 1970.
Sullivan County celebrates its bicentennial in 2017.