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

The Carnegie Library

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Arizona.

Before becoming a US territory in 1848, Arizona was part of Mexico. The Mexican government established the region as part of the state of Sonora, but it later became its own separate territory.

About Yavapai County

Yavapai County, located in the central part of Arizona, has a rich and varied history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Yavapai and Apache. These tribes lived off the land, hunting, gathering, and cultivating crops, leaving behind a legacy of ancient ruins and rock art.

In the mid-1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the rich deposits of gold and other minerals. This led to the founding of several mining towns, such as Prescott, which became the county seat in 1864. The discovery of gold in the nearby Bradshaw Mountains also led to a surge in population and economic growth. Yavapai County quickly became one of the major mining districts in the Arizona Territory.

However, the mining boom was accompanied by conflicts with the Native American tribes who resisted the encroachment on their lands. The Apache Wars, which lasted from the 1860s to the 1880s, saw intense fighting between the tribes and the US military. Eventually, the tribes were either forcibly relocated or placed on reservations, marking a turning point in the region's history.

In the 20th century, Yavapai County continued to develop and diversify its economy. Agriculture, ranching, and tourism played an increasingly vital role in the county's growth. Today, Yavapai County is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including parts of the Prescott National Forest and the Verde River. It remains an important hub for outdoor activities, cultural events, and historical tourism, showcasing its diverse heritage and unique blend of Native American and Western influences.

Yavapai County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Yavapai County, Arizona.

1864 - Yavapai County is created by the Arizona Territorial Legislature.
1877 - The county seat is moved from Prescott to Ironton, but later returned to Prescott in 1879.
1883 - Jerome is founded as a mining camp, becoming one of the largest copper mines in Arizona.
1891 - Congress establishes the Prescott National Forest, protecting the region's natural resources.
1895 - The Yavapai County Courthouse is built in Prescott, serving as a symbol of local government.
1915 - The Arizona Pioneers' Home is opened in Prescott, providing care for elderly pioneers.
1942 - The Poston War Relocation Center is established during World War II for Japanese Americans.
1975 - Yavapai College is founded, becoming an important educational institution in the county.
1991 - The Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe is formally recognized by the United States government.
2002 - The Prescott National Forest experiences the Indian Fire, one of the largest wildfires in Arizona's history.