Carnegie Washington, DC, Library

Carnegie Library in Washington, DC

Andrew Carnegie began providing funds for the construction of Public Libraries at the turn of the 20th century. The Carnegie Libraries were built from 1889 to 1929. A few years into the program, Carnegie ( or his Carnegie Foundation) would fund libraries if they met certain requirements.  Two requirements were especially important. The requesting organization had to own real estate on which the library could be built and they had to demonstrate a means of support for the continuing operation. Plans were submitted as well to Carnegie personnel for approval. Generally the Carnegie Libraries were built of brick and stone. This insured the long term survival of the libraries. 

After a number of years, some libraries needed updating and expansion. All told, some Carnegie Libraries survived with little change, some were creatively expanded, and others were torn down or repurposed for other uses. For many communities, Carnegie Libraries are a source of local pride and they are often demonstrative over changes. 

The Main Library in Washington DC was an impressive Carnegie example. This Beaux-Arts building was built in Mount Vernon Square, 8th and K Streets, NW. The Central Public Library, now known as the Apple Carnegie Library, was originally designed by the New York firm Ackerman and Ross. When it was dedicated on January 7, 1903, Andrew Carnegie and President Theodore Roosevelt were present. The building ceased to serve as the central branch of the DC Public Library in 1970. 

Only in America

The former Washington DC Main Library is now the location of an Apple Store! And it also houses the Historical Society of Washington, D.C. An Apple News Release describes the site as “Apple’s most extensive historic restoration project to date, restoring and revitalizing the Beaux-Arts style building once home to Washington, D.C.’s Central Public Library.” According to Apple, "the library will once again be a center for learning, discovery and creativity for the community, keeping with Carnegie’s vision of a public and free space for all.” 

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Sporting Chance Press's most recent publications include Papa Bear and the Chicago Bears' Winning Ways, Baseball's Winning Ways, and Poems About the Gospel. In the Winning Ways books, highlights of history go along with sports history and are presented with vintage photographs. Important  winning ways are also explored and are tied into Ben Franklin’s self-help methods for developing habits of virtue for young people.