Carnegie Free Library (McKeesport, Pennsylvania) facts for kids
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Carnegie Free Library
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | 1507 Library Ave., McKeesport, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | 1.5 acres (0.61 ha) |
| Built | 1902 |
| Architect | East, William J.; Stratton, Daniel |
| Architectural style | Romanesque, Richardsonian Romanesque |
| NRHP reference No. | 80003402 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1980 |
The Carnegie Free Library in McKeesport, Pennsylvania is a special public library. It was built with money from a very famous and wealthy man, Andrew Carnegie. McKeesport is a town located about 15 miles up the Monongahela River from Pittsburgh.
Andrew Carnegie gave money to build many libraries. The grant for this library was approved on April 2, 1899. Out of about 1,688 libraries funded by Carnegie in America, McKeesport's was the 12th one to be started. This library was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. This means it's an important historical building!
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A Gift from Andrew Carnegie
Andrew Carnegie was a very successful businessman. He made his fortune in the steel industry in Pittsburgh. But he believed that rich people should use their money to help society. He called this idea "philanthropy."
Who Was Andrew Carnegie?
Andrew Carnegie was born in Scotland in 1835. His family moved to America when he was a teenager. He started working at a young age. He worked his way up from a bobbin boy in a factory. Later, he invested in many businesses. He became a leader in the steel industry.
Why Did Carnegie Build Libraries?
Carnegie believed that everyone should have a chance to learn. He thought that libraries were the best way to help people. He wanted to give people access to books and knowledge. He felt that libraries could help people improve their lives. He funded libraries all over the world. He built them in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and other countries.
A Historic and Beautiful Building
The Carnegie Free Library in McKeesport is more than just a place for books. It is also an important piece of history. The building itself is beautiful. It was designed by architects William J. East and Daniel Stratton.
What is Romanesque Architecture?
The library's style is called Romanesque. It is also known as Richardsonian Romanesque. This style uses strong, heavy stone. It often has round arches and towers. It looks a bit like old European castles or churches. This style makes the library look grand and solid.
What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is an official list. It includes buildings, sites, and objects that are important in American history. When a building is on this list, it means it is special. It is recognized for its historical or architectural value. The Carnegie Free Library was added to this list in 1980. This helps protect it for future generations.
Your Local Library
Today, the Carnegie Free Library continues to serve the people of McKeesport. Libraries are still very important places. They offer books, computers, and programs for all ages. They are places where you can learn new things. You can also meet people and explore new ideas.
