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

Ottawa Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

501 South Main Street, Ottawa, Kansas

( Marker is on Main Street south of 5th Street, on the left when traveling south.)

1903

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 geographic center of the contiguous United States is located in a field near Belle Fourche, South Dakota, but a marker for it is located in a small town called Belle Plaine, Kansas.

About Franklin County

Franklin County, located in northeastern Kansas, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally home to various Native American tribes, with the Osage being the most prevalent. European settlers began to arrive in the early 1800s, primarily attracted by the region's fertile soil and abundant natural resources.

The county was officially established on June 3, 1855, with Ottawa as its county seat. The town of Ottawa, named after the Ottawa Tribe, quickly grew into an influential trading and transportation hub, thanks to its strategic location along the Marais des Cygnes River. In 1859, Ottawa University, one of the oldest educational institutions in Kansas, was founded in the town.

Franklin County became deeply involved in the abolitionist movement during the mid-1800s. Many settlers were strong opponents of slavery and actively participated in the Underground Railroad, helping fugitive slaves escape to freedom. John Brown, a prominent figure in the fight against slavery, resided in the county for a time and used it as a base for his anti-slavery activities.

During the Civil War, Franklin County experienced several conflicts, including the Battle of Fort Titus in 1864. After the war, the county continued to prosper agriculturally, with crops such as corn, wheat, and livestock becoming vital to the local economy. In the late 19th century, the arrival of the Kansas City, Lawrence & Southern Railroad further stimulated growth and trade in the county.

Today, Franklin County remains a vibrant community, proud of its rich history and commitment to progress. From its Native American roots to its abolitionist legacy, the county's past continues to shape its identity. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, museums, and trails that highlight Franklin County's unique heritage while enjoying the natural beauty and charm that the area has to offer.

Franklin County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Franklin County, Kansas.

1855 - Franklin County is officially established as a county in the state of Kansas.
1857 - Ottawa is designated as the county seat of Franklin County.
1858 - The first newspaper in Franklin County, The Kansas Tribune, is published in Ottawa.
1864 - The Kansas Pacific Railway reaches Franklin County, boosting economic development.
1867 - The first Franklin County Fair is held in Ottawa.
1875 - Ottawa University is founded in Ottawa, becoming the first university in Kansas.
1898 - The Franklin County Courthouse, an iconic building in Ottawa, is constructed.
1913 - Pomona State Park is established, becoming a popular recreational area in Franklin County.
1935 - The historic Old Depot Museum is opened in Ottawa, showcasing local history.
1983 - The Franklin County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history.
2007 - Celebration Park, a large recreational area, is opened in Franklin County.