One of Bemidji's Oldest Historic Landmarks
One of Bemidji's Oldest Historic Landmarks
Continuing the Legacy. Connecting the Community.
Standing tall along the lakeshore of Lake Bemidji is one of our area's oldest and most treasured buildings, the Carnegie Public Library. What began more than 100 years ago, as a gift from Andrew Carnegie to the City of Bemidji for construction of the building, has continued as a beautifully restored landmark, thanks to the generous contributions and support from our community. The building continues to be owned and maintained by the City.
The Friends of the Carnegie, a dedicated group of volunteers, works to organize events and opportunities for the public to utilize this historic building.
To stay up-to-date on our events, we encourage you to check back often, as well as follow us on Facebook. We look forward to seeing you at the Carnegie!
Book Grants for Local Elementary Schools & Libraries
The Friends of the Carnegie and the Herbert and Vivian Olson Children’s Reading Fund have made donations to nine local elementary schools, the ECFE program, and the Bemidji Public Library for purchase of library books for children from pre-K through Grade 3. The grants are to help the organizations expand their book selections for the youngest readers, and the family members who read to them.
Storytime at the Carnegie, a free program for pre-school children, began in 2019 at the Carnegie Library in Bemidji. It is sponsored by the Friends of the Carnegie, and was created thanks to a generous donation from the Herbert and Vivian Olson Children’s Reading Program.
Both Storytime and the grant program have been sponsored as part of our mission to support early childhood education and children’s literacy.
JOIN US FOR STORYTIME!