Carnegie Free Library offers programs for all ages
In the early 1900’s, industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie was known not only for his success with the Carnegie Steel Company but also for his passion for reading and education.
He established 3,000 public libraries across in the United States and other countries. The thirteenth of those was the Carnegie Free Library in Connellsville.
“The people of Connellsville wrote a letter to Mr. Carnegie, and he agreed to support it. I actually have the original letter framed,” said Sharon Martino, the library’s director. “The only thing that this library doesn’t share with other Carnegie libraries is we don’t get funding from the Carnegie Foundation. We’re a Carnegie Library in name only,”
When it opened in 1903, the library offered books, magazines and musical evenings in the second floor auditorium. Today, it offers access to more than a million volumes including magazines, e-books, audio books, music and movies.
No longer a music venue, the second floor of the library is now home to the Connellsville Area Historical Museum in collaboration with the Connellsville Area Historical Society.
In addition to the volumes offered at the library, patrons also have access to computers, a fax machine and a copier. And, said Martino, “We have microfilm dating back many years for all of our local newspapers, and we offer genealogy research.”
Carnegie Free Library also offers a number of free programs. Options for adults include exercise classes and resume building workshops. On Mondays, visitors are welcome to attend classes to learn about food insecurity, nutrition, cooking and budgeting.
Younger patrons can participate in three story hours throughout the week and a popular summer reading program at East Park in Connellsville. This year’s theme was Color My World, Martino said.
“We had a magician come in, the Wild World of Animals come in, the community theater group and others,” Martino said. “Everyone makes a craft and reads a story. The last week (of the program) is like a carnival celebration.”
As a nonprofit, Martino said they’re always looking for financial support. Patrons can purchase a book in honor of someone.
“We put a book plate inside that book, and we send you a letter saying the book you purchased is in honor or a memorial to whomever you chose,” Martino said.
There are other ways the community can support the library too.
“Stopping by for a visit is always helpful. We want foot traffic. We need volunteers to help plan and serve in these programs we offer,” Martino said. ”
The library acts as a community gathering place for all ages and as technology advances, Martino said they continue to find new ways to serve patrons.
“We’re an important part of the community because of all the services we offer. We provide a way to learn and grow whether that’s a pottery class we’re offering or it’s simply access to the computer or current news,” Martino said.
Residents of Connellsville can receive a free library card at the Carnegie Free Library. Visit https://www.carnegiefreelib.org/home for more information.