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

Brookville's Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

919 Main Street, Brookville, Indiana

( Marker is on Main Street (U.S. 52) north of East 9th Street, on the right when traveling north.)

Marker installed: 1995

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 Indiana.

The state's capital, Indianapolis, was originally founded in 1821 as a planned city to serve as the new state capital. It was named after the Indiana tribes that once inhabited the area.

About Franklin County

Franklin County, located in southeastern Indiana, has a rich history dating back to its settlement in the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Miami, who lived off the land and navigated the Whitewater River. The county gets its name from Benjamin Franklin, a prominent founding father of the United States.

In 1803, the first permanent settlers arrived in what would become Franklin County, establishing small communities such as Brookville and Laurel. These early pioneers relied heavily on agriculture, with farms sprouting up across the fertile land. The arrival of the Whitewater Canal in the 1840s further stimulated the growth of the county, allowing for the transportation of goods and boosting economic development.

During the mid-19th century, Franklin County played a significant role in the Underground Railroad. Many residents were abolitionists who provided safe havens and assistance to escaped slaves on their journey to freedom. The historic Whitewater Meeting House served as an important gathering point for anti-slavery activists.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed periods of prosperity and challenges for Franklin County. The railroad industry flourished, connecting the county to larger markets and facilitating the growth of towns. However, the Great Depression brought economic hardship, leading to the decline of many industries and a period of recovery that lasted well into the 20th century.

Today, Franklin County continues to embrace its agricultural roots while showcasing its rich history. The county is known for its charming small towns, beautiful natural landscapes, and historical sites, such as the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site and the Franklin County Historical and Museum Society. The county's history and close-knit community make it a beloved place to live and visit for those seeking a taste of small-town Americana.

Franklin County Timeline

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Franklin County, Indiana.

1807: Franklin County is officially established
1811: Brookville is named the county seat
1816: Indiana becomes a state
1837: Construction of the Whitewater Canal begins
1861: Franklin County supports the Union during the Civil War
1897: The Liberty Bell passes through Brookville during its national tour
1932: The Brookville Lake and Dam project begins
1996: The Whitewater Canal is designated as a National Historic Landmark
2008: The Franklin County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places