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:

Manhattan, Kansas

( Marker is at the intersection of Poyntz Avenue and 5th Street, on the right when traveling west on Poyntz Avenue.)

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 town of Greensburg, Kansas was destroyed by an EF5 tornado in 2007, and has since rebuilt as a model "green town" using eco-friendly technologies and materials.

About Riley County

Riley County, Kansas, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich history that spans back thousands of years. The land was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Kansa, Pawnee, and Osage people, who relied on the Flint Hills' natural resources for their livelihoods. European settlement began in the early 1800s when traders and explorers ventured into the region.

In 1853, the United States government created Riley County as part of the Kansas Territory. The county was named after General Bennett Riley, who served as a military governor in the area during the Mexican-American War. The discovery of limestone in the Flint Hills drove early industry and attracted settlers to the region.

Riley County played a pivotal role during the American Civil War. The county was divided between those supporting the Confederacy and those supporting the Union, leading to conflict and tensions between neighbors. Several military engagements took place in the area, including the Battle of Middle Creek and the Burning of the Courthouse in Manhattan.

As the 20th century dawned, Riley County experienced growth and development. Manhattan, the county seat and largest city, became home to Kansas State Agricultural College (now Kansas State University) in 1863, which stimulated growth and helped shape the county's future as an education and research center. Today, Riley County is a vibrant community known for its strong agricultural heritage, education institutions, and military ties, with Fort Riley, one of the largest military bases in the United States, located in the county.

Riley County Timeline

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

1855: Riley County established as one of the original 33 counties in the Kansas Territory
1857: Manhattan, the county seat, officially incorporated
1858: Kansas State Agricultural College, now known as Kansas State University, is founded in Manhattan
1861-1865: Riley County residents actively participate in the American Civil War
1864: "Wild Bill" Hickok, notorious Wild West lawman, becomes a constable in Riley County
1922: The famous Claflin Drug Store shooting, involving prohibition agents, takes place in Manhattan
1930s: Riley County, like the rest of the United States, is deeply affected by the Great Depression
1951: Fort Riley, a major U.S. Army installation, is reactivated after World War II
1986: Tuttle Creek Dam is completed, creating Tuttle Creek Lake and offering recreational opportunities in the county