Carnegie Library – Stambaugh (Iron River)

The Carnegie Library in Stambaugh represents a significant chapter in the history of public libraries in the region. Funding for this library was generously provided by Andrew Carnegie on April 13, 1914, in the amount of $12,500. Located at 601 Garfield Avenue, the library was a cornerstone of the community, reflecting Carnegie’s commitment to supporting public education and access to information.

Classic Architecture

Carnegie Library Stambaugh (Iron River) - Image By Jesse Sallak - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72298567

The library was designed in the classical architectural style that characterizes many Carnegie libraries. The Stambaugh Library served the community diligently until 1967. During its years of operation, it became a hub of learning and culture for the residents of Stambaugh. The building was closed in 1967 as the needs of the community evolved and library services expanded.

Following the closure, the Carnegie Library building transitioned to a new role. It was repurposed to house the Stambaugh School Offices. This new function allowed the building to continue serving the community in a different capacity.

Consolidation with Iron River

In the year 2000, significant changes occurred in the local governance structure. The City of Stambaugh consolidated with Iron River, leading to the reorganization of municipal services. As a result, the former Carnegie Library building was repurposed once again. It would now serve as the West Iron County Public Schools Administration Building. This transition marked a new chapter for the building, allowing it to continue contributing to the community’s needs in an administrative role.

During the period following the Carnegie Library’s closure, a new library was established to meet the continuing demand for library services. This new facility was set up as a one-room library in the basement of the Iron River City Hall. While modest in size, this new library provided essential services to the residents until further developments could be made.

The Carnegie Library building itself, with its historical significance and architectural charm, stands as a testament to the legacy of Andrew Carnegie’s philanthropic efforts. Its transformation from a public library to a school administration building reflects the changing needs of the community while preserving the building’s historical value. Today, the structure continues to be a landmark in Stambaugh, illustrating the enduring impact of Carnegie’s vision for public libraries and community service.

The 16 locations in Northern Michigan:

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).

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