Bradenton Carnegie Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Bradenton Carnegie Library
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 Location in Florida
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1405 4th Avenue W, Bradenton FL 34205 |
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| Built | 1918 |
| Built by | T.W. Hullinger & Son |
| Architectural style | Classical Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 87000616 |
| Added to NRHP | 9 April 1987 |
The Bradenton Carnegie Library is a special building in Bradenton, Florida. It's called a Carnegie library because it was built with money from a famous rich man named Andrew Carnegie. This library opened in 1918 and was the main library for Bradenton for 60 years!
Today, it's not a regular public library anymore. Instead, it's home to the Manatee County Historical Records Library. This means it keeps important old documents and records about the county's history. In April 1987, this historic building was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This list includes places that are important to American history.
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A Gift from Andrew Carnegie
Have you ever heard of Andrew Carnegie? He was a very rich man who made his money in the steel business. But he was also a philanthropist, which means he loved to give money to good causes. He believed that everyone should have access to books and learning.
Because of this belief, Andrew Carnegie gave money to build more than 3,000 libraries. These libraries were built all over the United States, Canada, and Europe. The Bradenton Carnegie Library was one of ten Carnegie libraries built in Florida. These libraries received money from the Carnegie Corporation of New York between 1901 and 1917. Six of these Florida libraries are still standing today!
Building a Special Library
The Bradenton Carnegie Library was built in a style called Classical Revival. This style often looks like ancient Greek or Roman buildings, with big columns and grand entrances.
Carnegie libraries usually had basements. However, because Florida has a high water table, building a basement was difficult. So, this library was built with two stories instead. This helped it meet the requirements for a Carnegie library. The library first opened its doors in 1918. It served as Bradenton's main library for six decades, helping many people learn and read.
On April 9, 1987, the Bradenton Carnegie Library was officially added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. This honor means the building is recognized as an important part of history.
What's Inside Today?
Today, the Bradenton Carnegie Library is no longer a place where you check out new books. Instead, it's the Historical Records Library. It's run by the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court's office.
This special library keeps many old and important items. You can find government records, marriage licenses, old maps, and even old yearbooks. They also have voter registration books and military discharge books. Some of these records go all the way back to 1856!
The library also has unique collections. These include the Herb Loomis Manatee County Postcard Collection. There is also the Steve Belack Crosley collection. The friendly staff at the library are there to help people. They assist researchers and anyone who wants to learn about the history of Manatee County.
Images for kids
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Viewed from 15th Street W.
