Carnegie Public Library (Tyler, Texas) facts for kids
Tyler Carnegie Library in 2010
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| Established | 1904 |
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| Location | 125 S. College St. Tyler, Texas |
| Type | Local history Artifacts Historical archives Caddo Indian diorama |
| Architect | Patton & Miller |
| Nearest car park | Free onsite |
The Smith County Historical Society is found inside the Carnegie Library building. This historic spot is located at 125 S. College Street in Tyler, Texas. It was first built in 1904 as the Carnegie Public Library. Later, in 1979, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places listings in Smith County, Texas. When Tyler got a brand new public library, the Carnegie building was given to the Smith County Historical Society. Today, it works as a museum and a place to keep old records.
Contents
The Carnegie Library Building
In 1903, the city of Tyler received a special gift of $15,000. This money came from the Andrew Carnegie Library Fund. This fund helped build many libraries across Texas. Between 1898 and 1917, the fund gave out $645,000 to 34 different areas in Texas.
Who was Andrew Carnegie?
Andrew Carnegie (1835–1919) was a very rich person who loved to help others. He believed that everyone should have access to books and learning. He encouraged towns to build libraries by offering money. But there was a catch! Towns had to promise to spend at least 10% of the grant money each year to keep the library running. Tyler agreed to raise $1,500 every year to maintain its new library.
Building the Library
The people of Tyler were very excited about their new library. They worked hard to raise money for things like the land and furniture. Many citizens gave money to buy a $2,000 piece of land from Annie Regina McMahon. The library building was made from strong limestone and brick in 1904. It had a pretty red tile roof.
Local newspapers wrote a lot about the fundraising efforts. People were very generous! They donated all sorts of things. These included plants for the garden, wall decorations, books, and even a piano for the auditorium. They also gave building materials and services.
Changes Over Time
The library building grew bigger in 1936. A $25,000 project doubled its size and made the lights inside much better. In 1965, a special area for children's books was created upstairs. The building was officially recognized as a historic place in 1979.
Smith County History Center
In 1980, a new public library was built across the street in Tyler. The city then leased the old Carnegie Library building to the Smith County Historical Society. The building was fixed up and improved. In 1984, the Carnegie History Center opened its doors. The historical society ran this center.
The Smith County Historical Society started in 1959. It is a non-profit group. The history center keeps many old items, records, and research materials. Donations help support the society's work. If you need help with research, they can provide it for a small fee. In the 1990s, the Carnegie History Center became part of the Smith County Historical Society. The society now takes care of all the museum exhibits and old items.
Visiting the Museum
The museum is open to everyone five days a week. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays. You can visit for free! There is also a free parking lot on the west side of the building.
See also
