The Carnegie Building

By Laura Kelly


This view of the Carnegie building was taken from the south side of the street.

The Carnegie building has been an asset to our city for many years. Whether serving as a library or arts center, it has been used for the purpose of education in Lawrence since the beginning of the twentieth century. Though the future of this building is yet to be decided, the Carnegie building will continue to play a large part in the history of our city, and be a beneficial structure in our community.

The Carnegie Building was built in 1904 on the corner of Ninth and Vermont Street in Lawrence, Kansas. It was designed by George A. Berlinghof and George A. Shaul (1) in a Beaux Arts style (2). The building was donated by Andrew Carnegie, and was given to the local government to be used as a library for the city of Lawrence, and was used for this purpose until 1972, when it was adapted for the use of the Lawrence Arts Center.

The Old Lawrence Library (as it is also called), was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 (3). In 1937 an addition to the building was constructed in the back of the structure (4).

In 2002, the Lawrence Arts Center relocated to a new building because of lack of space (5). The structure is currently vacant right now (November 19, 2002), but the Lawrence City Commission is discussing possible uses of the building including a shelter for the homeless, cultural center, historical center, or substance abuse counseling shelter (6).It is quite apparent that the Carnegie Building has added to the rich history of Lawrence, Kansas.

Though it was used for only two purposes so far, as a library and as an arts center, it has played an important role in Lawrence since its creation in 1904. Although the fate of the Carnegie Building is undetermined, it is certain that it will remain a symbol of our past.
This is one of two plaques placed on the front of the building, next to the door.
This picture was taken from across the street at the southeast corner of the intersection.

Works Cited:

(1)National Register of Historic Places. "KANSAS: Douglas County". 2002. http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com.
(2)first plaque on the building
(3)National Register of Historic Places. "KANSAS: Douglas County". 2002. http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com.
(4)second plaque on the building
(5)Mathis, Joel. "Push for shelter at the old library", Lawrence Journal World, 10/31/02.
(6)Mathis, Joel. "Push for shelter at the old library", Lawrence Journal World, 10/31/02

This is a Photo Explorations Project at West Junior High School, Lawrence, Kansas.
Karen Musacchio, instructor.

© Laura Kelly 2002.

Historic Places / Student Projects / Community Connections / West Junior High / USD 497