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

Carnegie Library

Historical marker location:

Parkersburg, West Virginia

( Marker is at the intersection of Green Street and 8th Street, on the right when traveling north on Green Street.)

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.

West Virginia is the leading producer of coal in the United States. The state's coal mining industry has a long history, dating back to the early 1800s, and has played a significant role in the state's economy. However, the industry has faced challenges in recent years due to environmental concerns and competition from other energy sources.

About Wood County

Wood County, West Virginia has a rich and diverse history, dating back to its formation in 1798. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware, who utilized the region for hunting and gathering. European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, drawn by the fertile land and abundant natural resources.

During the early years, the region was mainly a frontier outpost where settlers faced various hardships and conflicts with Native tribes. However, as time went on, the area grew in population and economic importance. The construction of the Northwestern Turnpike in the early 19th century facilitated trade and transportation, leading to further development.

The county's economy primarily relied on agricultural activities, with farming and livestock rearing being the main sources of income for many residents. The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought significant industrialization to Wood County, with the discovery of oil and gas reserves. This led to the establishment of several oil wells and refineries, providing employment opportunities and boosting the local economy.

However, the area also faced its fair share of challenges over the years. Like much of the United States, Wood County experienced the devastating effects of the Great Depression in the 1930s. Nevertheless, the region managed to recover and adapt to changing economic conditions, diversifying its industries and promoting tourism to bolster its economy.

Today, Wood County is a vibrant community that blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. It is known for its natural beauty, with parks, rivers, and outdoor recreational activities aplenty. The county continues to attract visitors and residents alike, as it combines a small-town charm with a thriving economy and a strong sense of community spirit.

Wood County Timeline

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Wood County, West Virginia.

1798: Wood County is established by the Virginia General Assembly as a part of Virginia
1800: The first permanent settlement is established by Alexander Parker, making it the oldest European-American settlement in present-day Wood County
1835: The first oil well in the United States is drilled in Burning Springs, Wood County
1863: West Virginia is admitted to the Union during the American Civil War, and Wood County becomes a part of the new state
1871: Completion of the Parkersburg-Belpre Bridge, connecting Parkersburg, West Virginia, and Belpre, Ohio
1906: Construction of the Little Kanawha River Navigation System begins, allowing for transportation of goods along the river
1927: The Blennerhassett Hotel, a historic landmark, opens in downtown Parkersburg
1967: The West Virginia Interstate 77 Bridge, commonly known as the Parkersburg Bridge, is completed, providing a vital connection for interstate travel
1990: The Parkersburg National Register Historic District is established, recognizing the historical significance of the city's architecture and landmarks