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

Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

455 North Main Street, Kingman, Kansas

( Marker is at the intersection of Main Street (State Highway 14) and D Avenue (U.S. 54/400), on the left when traveling north on Main Street.)

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 famous abolitionist John Brown made a name for himself in Kansas during the Bleeding Kansas era by leading raids against pro-slavery settlers.

About Kingman County

Kingman County, located in south-central Kansas, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 150 years. It was officially established on February 26, 1867, making it one of the oldest counties in the state. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Osage and Wichita before European settlers arrived.

The county was named after Samuel A. Kingman, a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. In the late 19th century, settlers began to arrive in Kingman County, drawn by the fertile land and the promise of a new life. Agriculture became the dominant industry, with crop farming and cattle ranching becoming the backbone of the local economy.

In the early 20th century, Kingman County saw significant growth and development. The discovery of oil in the region brought newfound prosperity to the area. Oil wells were drilled, and oil production became a major industry, contributing to the county's economic growth and attracting new residents.

Throughout the years, Kingman County has faced its fair share of challenges. The Great Depression hit the region hard, causing economic difficulties for its residents. However, the county managed to recover and adapt to changing times, diversifying its economy and focusing on industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

Today, Kingman County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a strong agricultural heritage. It offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities. With its rich history, scenic landscapes, and friendly community, Kingman County remains an important part of Kansas's cultural and economic landscape.

Kingman County Timeline

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Kingman County, Kansas.

1854 - Kingman County, Kansas territory is officially organized
1867 - The county's first post office, Walnut City, is established
1872 - The town of Kingman is founded and becomes the county seat
1885 - The Rock Island Railroad is built through Kingman County, boosting economic growth
1893 - Kingman County experiences a major grasshopper plague
1903 - Oil is discovered in the county, leading to a boom in the industry
1930s - Kingman County is affected by the Dust Bowl and experiences severe drought
1940 - The dams at Cheney Reservoir and Kingman State Fishing Lake are built
1955 - The Kingman County Historical Museum is established
1985 - A tornado causes significant damage in the town of Kingman