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

Historical marker location:

1301 7th Avenue, Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania

( Marker is at the intersection of Seventh Avenue (Pennsylvania Route 18) and 13th Street on Seventh 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 Pennsylvania.

The Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, was originally cast in England in 1752 and cracked during its first use. It was recast twice in Philadelphia, and the current bell has been on display in Independence National Historical Park since 2003.

About Beaver County

Beaver County, Pennsylvania, holds a rich and diverse history that spans back centuries. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Delaware and Seneca, the area became a prominent hub for European settlers during the 18th century. The county was officially established in 1800, named after the Beaver River that flows through it. Throughout its history, Beaver County has played a significant role in various industries and contributed to the growth of Pennsylvania as a whole.

In the early years, the county was primarily centered around agriculture and trading, with farmers and fur traders thriving in the fertile lands and access to waterways. However, the discovery of vast coal deposits in the mid-19th century brought about a significant shift. Beaver County quickly became a major player in the coal industry, attracting skilled labor and immigrants, particularly from Eastern Europe.

With the rise of the steel industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Beaver County experienced another wave of industrial growth. The county boasted multiple steel mills and factories, employing thousands of workers. This period of prosperity continued until the decline of the steel industry in the late 20th century, leading to economic challenges and the closure of many factories.

Throughout its history, Beaver County has also seen notable moments in American history. In the 1800s, the abolitionist movement gained traction in the region, and Beaver County served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Additionally, during the late 20th century, the county played a role in the development of the US space program, housing facilities that manufactured parts for NASA's space shuttles.

Today, Beaver County is transitioning and diversifying its economy beyond its industrial past. It is home to various industries, including healthcare, education, and emerging technologies. Historic sites, such as the Beaver County Courthouse and the Merrick Art Gallery, continue to draw visitors, offering glimpses into the county's captivating past while embracing its future.

Beaver County Timeline

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

1769 - The first European settlement is established in what is now Beaver County.
Beaver County is officially created in 1800, with parts of Washington and Allegheny counties.
1812 - The county seat is established in the town of Beaver, named after the beaver trapping and fur trading industry in the area.
1832 - The Pennsylvania and Ohio Canal is completed, connecting Beaver County to the Ohio River and facilitating trade.
1846 - The Cleveland and Pittsburgh Railroad begins operations in Beaver County, boosting industrial development.
1870s - The county experiences significant growth with the expansion of the steel industry.
1901 - The Ohio River flood devastates Beaver County, causing extensive damage to infrastructure.
Mid-20th century - Beaver County becomes a center for steel production and is known as the "Steel City."
1987 - The decline of the steel industry leads to the closure of major steel mills in Beaver County.
21st century - Beaver County focuses on diversifying its economy, with an emphasis on education, healthcare, and energy industries.