The Carnegie Library in Sault Ste. Marie stands as a historical landmark with a storied past. Built in 1909, this library was the result of a generous grant from Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie had pledged $10,000 to the city in 1901 to support the construction of a new public library. This addressed the growing need for library services in the area.
Originally, library services in Sault Ste. Marie were provided in two small rooms of the Town Hall. This set up quickly proved inadequate as the city’s population expanded. In search of a better solution, the town considered converting an improved fire hall into a library. However, it was ultimately decided to accept Carnegie’s grant and construct a dedicated library building.
The library’s initial opening took place in 1903, within a multipurpose building. The building also housed the Post Office, Public Hall, Town Hall, and Fire Hall.
Unfortunately, this building complex was destroyed by fire in 1907. The loss prompted a second round of negotiations with Carnegie for additional funding.
Carnegie was approached once again. This time it was a request for supplementary funds to cover the cost of rebuilding. Although he was initially reluctant, Carnegie agreed to provide an additional $5,500. This was to cover the difference between the original grant and the insurance settlement. The original grant had been for $10,000. Unfortunately the library and its contents were insured for only $4,500. The Town Clerk, C.J. Pim, explained that the insurance coverage had been deemed adequate due to the building’s proximity to the fire hall. Carnegie’s response to this shortfall included a pointed remark to the local council, noting that they were “penny wise and pound foolish.”
Despite this, the Carnegie Foundation’s additional contribution allowed for the completion of the new library building in 1909. The total cost of the reconstruction was $15,500, excluding the expenses for books and the site.
The building’s design reflects Carnegie’s commitment to creating dignified and functional public spaces. Constructed from brownstone and brick, the library embodied the Classical Revival style prevalent in Carnegie libraries of the time. The structure served as a vital community resource for many years. The library provided access to information for the residents.
In recent years, the building has found a new purpose. Today, it houses the Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District. It continues to serve the community in a different capacity. Its historical significance remains intact, a testament to the enduring legacy of Carnegie’s contributions to public libraries.
Northern Lower Peninsula – Boyne City, Cadillac, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, East Jordan, Mancelona, Manistee, Petoskey and Traverse City.
Upper Peninsula – Escanaba, Houghton, Iron Mountain, Ironwood, Ishpeming, Sault Ste. Marie, and Stambaugh (now Iron River).