It has stood at the top of a hill for a century.
The outside of the newly cleaned Carnegie Library of McKeesport,
an imposing stone structure, is a visual symbol of the strength
and importance of the events that have taken place inside this
fine building. Events that have given the community an enduring
legacy - children exploring the wonder of books, community groups
gathering for lectures and events, friends enjoying lively dances
and theatrical productions, and civic organizations meeting and
making decisions -- all of which have helped shape and touch the
lives of many individuals.
The Library itself began as a result of the efforts of one civic
organization: The Women's Club of McKeesport. Newly formed in late
1909, the Club's first goal was to create a library for
McKeesport. Knowing of his interest and support of other library
projects, Club Secretary, Mrs. Fred Crabtree wrote to Andrew Carnegie
asking for his help. After many pleas over the next year, he responded
with a gift of $50,000 to build the building.
His gift was made with the understanding that the City of McKeesport
would furnish a proper site for the building and provide for its
maintenance and operation. A far corner of the Evans Estate, bounded
by what are now known as Carnegie, Library and Union Avenue was chosen
as the location. On February 11, 1900, an ordinance was passed by the
Council of the City of McKeesport accepting Mr. Carnegie's donation
and appropriating $3,000 annually for the operation of the library.
William J. East, a noted Pittsburgh architect, designed the building
that is recognized as one of the area's architectural treasures.
On July 15, 1902 President James Evans and Mrs. Fred Crabtree of
the Board of Trustees opened the Library's doors.
The Library has grown considerably from the collection of 3,000
books Librarian Emily Kuhn first offered the community in 1902
to the present total of 110,134 books. The Library was named a
historical landmark in the late 1970's. Recent renovations include
the installation of nearly 16,600 Spanish roof tiles in keeping
with the original design of the building. Since the 1990's
additional changes and renovations have included an elevator,
handicap accessibility, wiring, computers and the establishment
of three branch locations.
The Board of Trustees, Director and Staff are proud to present
the best library around through the Carnegie Library of McKeesport
for the next hundred years.
