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

Danvilles Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

101 South Indiana Street, Danville, Indiana

( Marker is at the intersection of South Indiana Street and East Broadway Street on South Indiana Street.)

Marker installed: 2001

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 first successful experimental farm in the United States was established in Indiana in 1862. Known as the Purdue University Agricultural Experiment Station, it paved the way for modern agricultural practices.

About Hendricks County

Hendricks County, located in Indiana, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Native American tribes, including the Miami and Delaware, were the first inhabitants of the area, utilizing its fertile lands for hunting and farming. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, and by the early 19th century, Hendricks County was established.

The county was named after Indiana's first governor, William Hendricks, who served from 1822 to 1825. With the opening of the National Road in the early 1830s, Hendricks County experienced significant growth, attracting new settlers and businesses to the region. The county's agricultural sector thrived due to the fertile soil, leading to the establishment of several prosperous farms.

During the Civil War, Hendricks County played a crucial role in supporting the Union cause. Many local residents enlisted in the military, and the county contributed to the war effort by supplying troops, provisions, and medical aid. After the war, the county continued to grow, and industries such as manufacturing and transportation began to flourish.

In the 20th century, Hendricks County experienced rapid suburbanization as Indianapolis expanded westward. The construction of Interstate 70 further facilitated growth and accessibility to the area. Today, Hendricks County is a thriving community with a diverse economy, encompassing industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. The county is also known for its vibrant arts scene, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community.

Hendricks County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Hendricks County, Indiana.

1824 - Hendricks County was officially formed on December 20, 1824, and named after Indiana Governor William Hendricks.
1831 - The first courthouse, a log building, was constructed in Belleville to serve as the county seat.
1848 - The county seat was moved from Belleville to Danville, where a new courthouse was built.
1883 - The iconic Hendricks County Courthouse in Danville, designed by Isaac Hodgson, was completed.
1887 - The town of Plainfield experienced a significant fire that destroyed much of the downtown area.
1898 - The interurban railway system was introduced in Hendricks County, connecting various towns in the county.
1924 - The American Legion was founded in Paris, Hendricks County, by World War I veterans.
1956 - Interstate 70 was completed in Hendricks County, providing a major transportation route.
1986 - The annual Hendricks County 4-H Fair began, showcasing the achievements of local youth and agricultural activities.
2004 - The Hendricks County Park Board was established to oversee the county's parks and recreational areas.

Danvilles Carnegie Library

Danvilles Carnegie Library