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:

22 South Madison Street, Waupun, Wisconsin

( Marker is at the intersection of South Madison Street (Business U.S. 151) and East Jefferson Street, on the right when traveling south on South Madison Street.)

Marker installed: 1979

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.

Wisconsin was originally part of the Northwest Territory, which was created by the United States in 1787. It later became part of the Michigan Territory in 1805, and then part of the Wisconsin Territory in 1836.

About Dodge County

Dodge County, located in the state of Wisconsin, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ho-Chunk and Menominee peoples, who utilized the land's abundant resources for their livelihoods.

European settlement in Dodge County began in the 1830s, with emigrants from New York and New England seeking new opportunities in the Midwest. The first permanent settlement was established in 1836 in the city now known as Beaver Dam. The construction of the Rock River Canal in the 1840s further spurred development in the region, as it provided a vital transportation route for settlers and businesses.

During the mid-19th century, agriculture became the backbone of Dodge County's economy, with farms and dairy production playing a crucial role in shaping the county's way of life. The county also witnessed the rise of industrialization, with manufacturing and milling operations contributing to its economic growth. In 1857, the first railroad reached Dodge County, connecting it to larger markets and facilitating trade.

Throughout its history, Dodge County has faced numerous challenges, including the devastating effects of the Great Depression and the struggles of the agricultural sector during various economic downturns. However, the spirit of resilience and community characterizes the county's response to these hardships. Today, Dodge County continues to thrive, boasting a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, while preserving its rich heritage through historical sites, museums, and cultural events.

Dodge County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Dodge County, Wisconsin.

1836 - Dodge County was created by an act of the Wisconsin Territorial Legislature.
1844 - Juneau was established as the county seat.
1856 - The Beaver Dam River was dammed to provide power for manufacturing, leading to industrial growth in the county.
1863 - The county seat was moved from Juneau to Beaver Dam.
1890 - Dodge County experienced a surge in population due to increased agricultural development.
1929 - Horicon Marsh, the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States, was designated as a wildlife refuge.
1952 - The John Deere Horicon Works was established, becoming an important employer in the county.
1983 - The Dodge Correctional Institution, the state's largest maximum-security prison, opened in Waupun.
2008 - The Dodge County Historical Society opened the Dodge County Historical Museum, showcasing the history of the county.