Andrew Carnegie, the Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist, significantly impacted public education by funding over 2,500 libraries worldwide, with nearly 1,700 in the U.S. His vision was establishing community centers that provided free access to knowledge and self-improvement, reflecting the Progressive-era ideals of education and equality.
Many of the libraries funded by Andrew Carnegie have been repurposed or lost, but around 800 of them are still open as public libraries and cultural landmarks. Eight of these buildings are located within a two-hour drive of Rochester, New York, and five are still functioning as libraries, while two have been repurposed into a restaurant and an art gallery. Other Carnegie Library structures, such as 335 Montgomery St., Syracuse, 1022 Main St., Niagara Falls, and 45 S. Main St., Salamanca, still exist throughout the region, but the interior is inaccessible to the general public. Three Carnegie Libraries are part of the Syracuse University, Alfred University, and the old Wells College in Aurora campuses.
Their distinctive architectural features, like symmetrical designs, large windows, and prominent entrances, reflect Carnegie’s commitment to creating inviting spaces for learning. Today, these libraries stand as vital community hubs, showcasing the enduring legacy of Carnegie’s dedication to democratizing knowledge and public welfare.
Greater Rochester
Penn Yan Public Library
214 Main Street
Yates County
Established: 1905
pypl.stls.org
The building still houses the library as originally intended.
Perry Public Library
70 North Main Street
Wyoming County
Established: 1912
perry.owwl.org
The building still houses the library as originally intended.
Warsaw Public Library
130 North Main Street
Wyoming County
Established: 1904
warsawpubliclibrary.org
The building still houses the library as originally intended.
Surrounding Counties
Fulton Public Library
160 S 1st Street
Oswego County
Established: 1905
fultonpubliclibrary.org
The building still houses the library as originally intended.
Hornell Public Library
64 Genesee Street
Steuben County
Established: 1911
hornellpubliclibrary.org
The building still houses the library as originally intended.
Lackawanna Public Library
560 Ridge Road
Erie County
Established: 1922
buffalolib.org
The building still houses the library as originally intended.
North Tonawanda Public Library*
240 Goundry Street
Niagara County
Established: 1904
carnegieartcenter.org
*The original Carnegie Library building now houses the Carnegie Art Center.
Olean Public Library*
116 South Union Street
Cattaraugus County
Established: 1908
theoldlibraryofolean.com
*The original Carnegie Library building now houses The Old Library Restaurant.
Explore More
Rochester’s Olmsted-Designed Parks
Rochester is fortunate to be one of a handful of American cities with a park system comprised of Frederick Law Olmsted-designed parks.
A free library card allows you to access 31 Monroe County libraries, including Central Library and Libby, the digital library.
Rochester’s railfans can appreciate the remarkable structures preserved by dedicated preservationists who recognize their value.
These self-guided tours around Rochester are like a regional scavenger hunt! Learn the stories behind some of the things you see along our roadways.
Guided Walks and Tours Around Rochester, NY
Local experts who highlight the rich history, geology, ecology, and community of the greater Rochester region lead these guided walks.
Rochester is home to world-renowned museums and thought-provoking galleries. You can spend weeks exploring our rich cultural heritage.
My Favorite Books About the Rochester Area
I’ve provided links to borrow these Rochester-themed books from a Monroe County Library or to purchase them online via Amazon or Bookshop.
All Aboard! Ride the Rails at These 4 Heritage Train Museums
Listen to the rhythmic chugga-chuggas and whistling choo-choos while enjoying the scenic landscape passing by on a Rochester-area train ride.
Have you visited any of these Carnegie libraries?
Your insights and experiences are valuable. Please share them in the comments.
People often ask me if I get free access to places while exploring. The answer is no unless I’m invited to previews or granted behind-the-scenes access as part of my media role. Generally, I don’t mention my project, Day Trips Around Rochester, NY, because I want the same experience you would have. I create and share content simply because it brings me joy. I would appreciate your support—a cup of coffee or two to help fuel future field trips—if you have found valuable information here that has helped you explore the Rochester area.
