Carnegie Public Library

Located at the bustling intersection of Fifth Avenue and Ninth Street, the historic Carnegie Public Library in Huntington, West Virginia, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of public knowledge and architectural grandeur. This iconic building, which served the community for nearly eight decades, continues to be a symbol of Huntington's rich cultural heritage and commitment to education.

The Genesis of a Landmark

In the early 20th century, Huntington and Cabell County lacked a dedicated public library, with the only available collection residing within the First Congregational Church. This all changed in 1901 when the industrial magnate Andrew Carnegie, renowned for his philanthropy, offered $25,000 for the construction of a public library. The city's commitment to provide the land and maintain the building led to the acquisition of a 90-foot square lot, and local architect James B. Stewart was commissioned to design the structure.

Construction commenced in the spring of 1902, with Carnegie contributing an additional $10,000 to the project. The cornerstone was laid on November 14, 1902, by prominent local figures, including W. H. H. Holswade, President of the Board of Education, and H. C. Gordon, the Mayor of Huntington. Initially, the plans called for stone veneer only on the south and west sides, but it was later decided to extend this elegant veneer to parts of the north and east sides as well.

A Grand Opening and Early Years

By January 1, 1904, the Carnegie Public Library opened its doors to the public, boasting an initial collection of 750 books. The building also housed the offices of the Board of Education. Miss Adrianne Burns, the first librarian, significantly expanded the collection to 6,000 volumes during her tenure from 1904 to 1908. She was succeeded by Miss Lewis Harvey, who served as librarian until 1943. Over time, the Board of Education vacated its offices, and the library came to occupy the entire building.

The interior saw renovations in the 1930s under the supervision of architect Albert F. Tucker, ensuring that the library remained a modern and welcoming space for the community. For decades, the Carnegie Public Library was a beacon of knowledge and learning in Huntington, until a new library opened across Ninth Street in 1980. The same year, the Carnegie library was added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as a historic landmark.

A New Chapter: From Library to Restaurant to College

After the library moved to its new location, the Cabell County Library Board sold the building for $185,000. A group of investors from Columbus, Ohio, transformed the interior into a unique dining experience known as The Old Library. The restaurant, which featured a lounge with a square island bar on the first floor and dining tables on the mezzanine, paid homage to the building's origins with its book-themed decor and game room. Despite initial success, the restaurant closed after a few years.

In 1985, the Huntington Junior College moved into the building, where it remains to this day. The college continues to preserve the historic essence of the structure while adapting it for modern educational purposes.

Architectural Marvel: Beaux-Arts Elegance

The Carnegie Public Library is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, characterized by its two-story design with a raised basement and smooth gray ashlar walls. The building's neoclassical design follows the Ionic order, with a grand portico supported by paired columns leading to a pediment. Smaller pediments adorn the west and south sides, while the east side remains plainer in comparison.

One of the most striking features is the frieze, inscribed with the names of renowned authors and philosophers spanning from classical antiquity to modern times. On the south side facing Fifth Avenue, Socrates takes center stage above the portico, flanked by Homer and Plato. The west side, facing Ninth Street, features Shakespeare (spelled Shakspere), Macaulay, Schiller, and Longfellow. Although partially obscured by neighboring buildings, the north and east sides also bear the names of literary giants such as Franklin, Virgil, and Goethe.

The Mysterious Union Soldier Statue

Adding to the library's historical intrigue is the tale of the Union soldier statue that once stood at its southwest corner. Likely erected by the Grand Army of the Republic in the 1890s, the statue was a familiar sight in various postcards depicting the library. However, in 1915, amid controversy over plans to construct a Confederate monument at Ritter Park, the statue mysteriously vanished. Witnesses reported seeing it loaded onto a wagon, presumably for relocation, but it was never seen again.

Today, the Carnegie Public Library building stands as a cherished landmark in Huntington, embodying the city's dedication to preserving its rich history while adapting to the evolving needs of the community. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious visitor, the Carnegie Public Library offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and a testament to the enduring power of knowledge and education.