Taunton Public Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Taunton Public Library
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Front view
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | Taunton, Massachusetts |
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| Built | 1903 |
| Architect | Albert R. Ross |
| Architectural style | Beaux Arts |
| MPS | Taunton MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 84002225 |
| Added to NRHP | July 5, 1984 |
The Taunton Public Library is a public library in Taunton, Massachusetts. You can find it at 12 Pleasant Street. The main part of the library is a beautiful building. It was built in 1903 with help from a famous rich person named Andrew Carnegie. Later, in 1979, a new, modern part was added to the back. This old building is special because it's a great example of a style called Beaux Arts architecture. It's even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Contents
The Library's Design and History
The Taunton Public Library is located on the south side of Pleasant Street. This street is in the middle of Taunton and has many other important city buildings. The oldest part of the library was built in 1903. It was designed by an architect named Albert R. Ross. He used a style called Beaux Arts and Classical Revival.
Building Materials and Shape
The original building is shaped like the letter "T". It is made from a light-colored stone called Indiana Limestone. The front part of the "T" sticks out. This section has three wide parts and one deep part. The main entrance is in the middle of this front section.
Special Features of the Entrance
The entrance is set back inside a round arch. Above the arch, there is a special decoration. It looks like a broken triangle shape with a fancy design in the middle. Tall, round columns stand on each side of the front section. These columns have fancy tops, called Corinthian style.
Roof and Windows
These columns support a layered border around the top of the building. Below the roof, there is a decorative edge with small blocks. The roof itself is a special shape called a truncated hip roof. The building also has different sizes and shapes of windows. This adds variety to its look.
Modern Addition to the Library
In 1979, a large new section was added to the back of the original building. This new part is covered in brick. It helps the library serve more people today.
Funding and National Recognition
The building of the 1903 library was possible thanks to a large gift. A very wealthy businessman and helper of good causes, Andrew Carnegie, gave $70,000 for its construction. Because of its special design and history, the library was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. This list includes important historical places across the United States.
