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:

214 North Walnut Street, Peabody, Kansas

( Marker is at the intersection of Walnut Street and Division Avenue, on the right when traveling north on Walnut 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 novel "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote is based on a true story that took place in Holcomb, Kansas in 1959.

About Marion County

Marion County, Kansas, located in the central part of the state, has a rich history tracing back to the mid-19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Osage and Kaw, who utilized the land for hunting and gathering. In 1855, the region became the first organized county in Kansas Territory and was named after American Revolutionary War general Francis Marion.

Settlers began arriving in Marion County in the 1850s, attracted by its fertile soil and ideal farming conditions. The county quickly developed into an agricultural hub, with crops like wheat, corn, and vegetables becoming major staples. Towns such as Marion and Florence sprouted up to support the growing population and serve as trade centers.

Throughout its history, Marion County witnessed several significant events. During the Civil War, tensions rose as pro-slavery and anti-slavery settlers clashed, leading to skirmishes and disturbances in the county. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway in the late 19th century further catalyzed the county's growth, with new opportunities for trade and transportation becoming available.

In the early 20th century, Marion County experienced both successes and challenges. The county's population peaked in the 1920s, but the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl of the 1930s hit the region hard, causing significant economic hardship. However, the county rebounded after the dust storms, and the agriculture and manufacturing sectors continued to play vital roles in its economy.

Today, Marion County retains its predominantly rural character but offers a diverse mix of farming, manufacturing, and tourism industries. The county's rich history, showcased by well-preserved prairie-style architecture and numerous historical sites, attracts visitors interested in exploring its past. Marion County remains a testament to the resilience and determination of its inhabitants throughout the years.

Marion County Timeline

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

1860: Marion County established as a county in Kansas
1866: First European settlers arrive in Marion County
1878: Marion County Courthouse is built in Marion
1887: Santa Fe Railroad comes to Marion County
1893: Chingawasa Springs, a popular resort, opens in Marion County
1904: Marion Reservoir is constructed for irrigation and recreation
1930s: Marion County experiences severe drought during the Dust Bowl era
1943: Camp Phillips, a U.S. Army training center, is established in Marion County
1969: Marion County Park and Lake is opened to the public
1990s: Marion County's population starts to decline due to rural depopulation
2001: Marion County Old Settlers' Day celebration is established