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:

504 Morgan Avenue, Downs, Kansas

( Marker is at the intersection of Morgan Avenue (State Highway 181) and Osborne Street, on the right when traveling south on Morgan Avenue.)

1905

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.

Kansas is home to several important Native American tribes, including the Kansa, Osage, and Wichita.

About Osborne County

Osborne County, located in the state of Kansas, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 1800s. The region was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Kansa and Pawnee tribes, who relied on the fertile land along the Solomon River for their sustenance and livelihood.

In the mid-19th century, European settlers began arriving in the area, primarily for agricultural purposes. The establishment of the Homestead Act in 1862 attracted an influx of settlers to Osborne County, resulting in the formation of numerous farming communities. The county was officially organized in 1867 and named after Vincent B. Osborne, a Union Army captain who had served during the Civil War.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Osborne County experienced steady growth and development. The construction of railroads in the 1880s greatly improved transportation and brought new economic opportunities to the area. Agriculture, particularly wheat and livestock farming, became the backbone of the local economy, with several flourishing farming communities emerging throughout the county.

Throughout its history, Osborne County has faced challenges such as droughts, economic downturns, and depopulation. However, the resilience and perseverance of the local community have allowed the county to rebound and adapt to changing circumstances. Today, Osborne County continues to be a vibrant rural community, with agriculture still playing a significant role in its economy, along with other industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. The county's rich history is celebrated through various historical sites and annual events that honor its heritage.

Osborne County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Osborne County, Kansas.

1867: Osborne County is established as a county in Kansas.
1868: The town of Osborne is founded.
1872: The first post office is established in Osborne County.
1873: The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway reaches Osborne.
1880: The population of Osborne County reaches over 3,000.
1884: The Osborne County Courthouse is built.
1892: The State Bank of Osborne, the first bank in the county, opens.
1908: The Osborne American newspaper begins publication.
1910: The population of Osborne County peaks at over 9,000.
1932: The Dust Bowl causes severe damage to agriculture in Osborne County.
1973: The Osborne County Historical Museum is established.
2007: The city of Osborne celebrates its 140th anniversary.