Andrew Carnegie was a champion of the great public library movement of the 19th century. He funded the construction of more than 2,500 libraries worldwide, one of the most significant philanthropic contributions of all time.
Today his foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York, invites you to explore these cherished civic institutions.
FIND YOUR CARNEGIE LIBRARY
Through an interactive map, learn more about the 1,681 Carnegie Libraries that were built in the United States and access the foundation’s archival records for each location.
There is not such a cradle of democracy on earth as the free public library.
Andrew Carnegie
DISCOVER LIBRARY STORIES
Read stories submitted by fans and patrons and learn how libraries are celebrating Carnegie Libraries 250, a special initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Do you have a Carnegie Library story? Share your memories and photographs here.
SUBMIT
Are you a Carnegie Library fan?
Did your library receive a Carnegie Libraries 250 gift?
CARNEGIE LIBRARIES 250
In 2026, Carnegie Corporation of New York gave $10,000 gifts to more than 1,350 Carnegie Libraries still in operation in the United States. The unrestricted funds were intended to help the libraries serve their communities and celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
FEATURED LIBRARIES
A Carnegie Library Road Trip
Journalist Mark McDonald submitted a collection of photos and stories about his travels to more than 150 Carnegie Libraries in the United States. What he saw and learned, he says, made him proud to be an American.
In a Snowy North Dakota Town, Bake Sales and Raffles Provide a Restored Dome for a Carnegie Library
122 years ago, a women’s group helped bring a Carnegie Library to Valley City. Recently, the town rallied again to make much-needed repairs to the building
A Portland Community Votes to Invest $13 Million in Its Carnegie Library
As part of a taxpayer-approved ballot measure, North Portland Library is one of three Carnegie Libraries renovated in Multnomah County, Oregon
ANDREW CARNEGIE: A LIBRARY LEGACY
