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

Braddock Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

419 Library Street, Braddock, Pennsylvania

( Marker is at the intersection of Library Street and Maple Way when traveling south on Library Street.)

Marker installed: 2012

Historic Landmark

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 Pennsylvania.

Philadelphia is home to the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the United States, the Reading Terminal Market, which opened in 1893.

About Allegheny County

Allegheny County, located in western Pennsylvania, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee and Delaware, European settlers arrived in the area during the 18th century. The French and Indian War and the American Revolution played significant roles in shaping the early days of the county, with events like the Battle of Bushy Run and the Whiskey Rebellion taking place within its borders.

The county's development, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries, was heavily influenced by the rise of industry. With its abundant natural resources, including coal and iron ore, Allegheny County became a major center for steel production, earning the moniker "Steel City." The expansion of railroads and the construction of the Erie Canal further facilitated economic growth in the area.

Throughout its history, Allegheny County has been home to influential figures in politics, business, and culture. Pittsburgh, the county seat and largest city, has produced notable individuals such as Andrew Carnegie, who built a vast steel empire, and Rachel Carson, environmentalist and author of "Silent Spring." The region's thriving arts scene also includes the Carnegie Museums, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and the Pittsburgh Opera.

In recent decades, Allegheny County has undergone a transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a more diversified economy focused on healthcare, education, technology, and robotics. Although the decline of the steel industry caused significant challenges, the county has rebounded by embracing new industries and investing in urban revitalization efforts.

Today, Allegheny County remains a vibrant and culturally rich area, with a strong spirit of resilience and innovation. Its history continues to shape its present, as the county keeps evolving and adapting to the changing economic and social landscape.

Allegheny County Timeline

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

1788 - Allegheny County is established on September 24.
1794 - The "Whiskey Rebellion" protests occur in the county.
1840 - The Pennsylvania Railroad arrives in Allegheny County, stimulating industrial development.
1873 - The Great Railroad Strike takes place in the county.
1889 - The Johnstown Flood affects parts of Allegheny County.
1907 - The Pittsburgh Pirates, now known as the Pittsburgh Steelers, are founded in Allegheny County.
1968 - Pittsburgh becomes the county seat of Allegheny County.
1981 - The collapse of the Kinzua Bridge impacts the county's transportation infrastructure.
1998 - The completion of the Pittsburgh International Airport's new terminal enhances air travel in the county.
2018 - Allegheny County celebrates its 230th anniversary.