Carnegie Free Library (McKeesport)
By Leepaxton at en.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Location:
1507 Library St, McKeesport, PA 15132
Description:
Perched atop a hill at 1507 Library Avenue in McKeesport, the Carnegie Free Library is a striking example of Richardsonian Romanesque design, completed in 1902. Its eye‑catching exterior of rugged stone and Romanesque arches conveys a sense of enduring presence. The library was made possible by a $50,000 gift from Andrew Carnegie, initiated through the efforts of the Women’s Club of McKeesport, with the city accepting the donation and committing to the building’s upkeep. From an initial collection of around 3,000 volumes, it has expanded to serve the community with more than 110,000 items. Inside, the top floor houses a local history museum with exhibits celebrating the region’s industrial past, from coal and coke artifacts to railroad memorabilia.
Over the years, the building has undergone thoughtful renovations that respect its original character—Spanish roof tiles matching the original design, new wiring, an elevator, and improved accessibility—and now also includes branch locations in White Oak and Duquesne. A center for programs ranging from cooking classes and children’s activities to civic gatherings and health initiatives, the library continues to be a vital cultural and educational hub, carrying forward a legacy of community connection that began over a century ago.
