Carnegie Free Library of Braddock

The Carnegie Free Library of Braddock is a public library in a small town in Pennsylvania, notable for its distinctive Romanesque Revival architecture and octagonal tower from the 19th century. The building features decorative cast-iron panels beneath its windows and is divided across two floors with adult and children's sections.

The building was founded in 1888 and was the first Carnegie library in the United States, personally dedicated by Andrew Carnegie in March 1889. This opening marked the beginning of a nationwide effort to promote public libraries across America.

The library contains a music hall, pottery studio, and art lending collection where visitors can borrow original artworks for display at home. These offerings make the place a center for artistic activity and community creativity.

Adult services are located on the first floor, while the renovated children's section occupies the second floor since 2012. Visitors should note that the building houses multiple recreational facilities including a gymnasium, swimming pool, and bowling alley that are accessible from the main spaces.

The building expanded in 1893 and integrated a gymnasium, swimming pool, and duckpin bowling alley, making it a multifunctional community facility. This combination was unusual for libraries of that era and transformed it into much more than a book collection.

Location: Braddock

Inception: 1888

Architects: William Halsey Wood

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 40.40190,-79.86540

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03