The historic Alameda Free Library has received a generous grant of $10,000 from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. This funding coincides with a nationwide celebration honoring public libraries and the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This contribution highlights the library’s significant role as one of the original Carnegie Libraries, established to promote literacy and knowledge across the United States.
Located at the corner of Oak Street and Santa Clara Avenue since 1903, Alameda’s Carnegie Library is among the 1,280 Carnegie Libraries that continue to thrive today. These institutions serve as vital resources for public education and community engagement. According to the official Alameda website, the library’s rich history reflects the vision that Andrew Carnegie had for such establishments.
Dame Louise Richardson, the president of Carnegie Corporation, emphasized that this grant is not merely financial support but a reaffirmation of the founding principles that guided Carnegie in establishing these libraries. She noted that public libraries play a crucial role in society, especially during times of increasing polarization and distrust, as reported by The New York Times.
The Carnegie Corporation has created an informative and interactive map that details the locations of these historic libraries, allowing the public to better understand their enduring impact. For those interested in learning more about the Alameda Free Library, additional information is available on their website at www.alamedafree.org or by contacting them at 510-747-7777. Visitors can also inquire about accessibility options and transportation services, including AC Transit routes that connect to this important community hub.
As the Alameda Free Library prepares to utilize these funds, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Andrew Carnegie and the vital role of libraries in fostering education and civic engagement.
