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Atlanta Public Library (Atlanta, Illinois) facts for kids

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Atlanta Public Library
Atlanta Public Library.JPG
Atlanta Public Library (Atlanta, Illinois) is located in Illinois
Atlanta Public Library (Atlanta, Illinois)
Location in Illinois
Atlanta Public Library (Atlanta, Illinois) is located in the United States
Atlanta Public Library (Atlanta, Illinois)
Location in the United States
Location Race and Arch Sts., Atlanta, Illinois
Area 0.6 acres (0.24 ha)
Built 1908 (1908)
Built by Reichel, Joseph A.
Architect Moratz, Paul A.
Architectural style Classical Revival, Octagon Mode
NRHP reference No. 79000852
Added to NRHP December 11, 1979

The Atlanta Public Library is a special building in Atlanta, Illinois. It was built in 1908 and has been a library ever since. This library is unique because of its design. It mixes two styles: the Neoclassical look and an eight-sided shape.

A Unique Building Design

The Atlanta Public Library stands out because of its unusual design. The architect, Paul A. Moratz, combined two different styles.

Neoclassical and Octagon Styles

  • The Neoclassical style means it looks like ancient Greek or Roman buildings. Think of grand buildings with tall columns.
  • The Octagon Mode means the building has eight sides. This is not a common shape for a library!
  • Most of the eight sides are the same. But the front is different. It has a fancy entrance called a portico.
  • This portico has strong, simple columns called Doric columns.
  • The main entrance is a round arched doorway.
  • On top, the library has a bright red tile roof.

The Library's History

The idea for a public library in Atlanta started a long time ago, in 1873.

Built by the Community

  • When the library building was constructed in 1908, it was special.
  • Many libraries at that time got money from the Carnegie Foundation.
  • But the Atlanta Public Library was built with help from the local community. People in Atlanta worked together to make it happen!

Changes Over Time

  • In the 1970s, a clock tower was added to the library property.
  • For a while, the Atlanta Museum was located in the library's basement.

A Historic Landmark

The Atlanta Public Library is recognized as an important historic place.

National Register of Historic Places

  • On December 11, 1979, the library was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • This means it's a building that is important to the history of the United States. It's protected so future generations can enjoy it.
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