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

Bozeman Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

35 North Bozeman Avenue, Bozeman, Montana

( Marker is at the intersection of North Bozeman Avenue and East Mendenhall Street, on the left when traveling north on North Bozeman 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.

Audiobooks about the history of Montana.

The state of Montana was once home to a massive inland sea that covered much of North America around 80 million years ago during the Late Cretaceous period.

About Gallatin County

Gallatin County, Montana is located in the southwestern part of the state and has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Crow, Blackfeet, and Shoshone, who hunted and fished in the region. They lived off the land and had a deep connection to the natural resources of the area.

In the early 1800s, European explorers and fur trappers ventured into the Gallatin Valley. John Colter, a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, is believed to be the first recorded white explorer in the area. Trappers and traders like John Bozeman and Jim Bridger also made their way through the valley, establishing trading posts and creating trails.

The discovery of gold in the nearby Alder Gulch in 1863 brought a wave of settlers to Gallatin County. Bozeman, named after John Bozeman, became a central hub for gold miners and prospectors. The establishment of Fort Ellis near Bozeman during the Indian Wars further contributed to the growth of the area and provided protection for settlers.

As more settlers arrived, Gallatin County was officially established in 1865. The county was named after Albert Gallatin, a prominent statesman and former Secretary of the Treasury. Agriculture became a major industry in the area, with the fertile soil and abundant water sources supporting the growth of crops and livestock.

Today, Gallatin County is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its proximity to Yellowstone National Park and the Gallatin National Forest. It has also become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a thriving economy, driven by industries such as tourism, agriculture, and technology.

Gallatin County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Gallatin County, Montana.

1805: The Lewis and Clark Expedition passes through the area that will become Gallatin County.
1864: Gallatin County is established by the territorial legislature of Montana.
1871: The city of Bozeman is founded as the county seat of Gallatin County.
1883: The Northern Pacific Railway reaches Bozeman, spurring economic growth in the area.
1910: The Montana State University is established in Bozeman.
1960s: Gallatin County experiences a population boom due to its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
2008: The term "Gallatin Valley" is officially recognized by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names to describe the region.