Andrew Carnegie's philanthropy built Orillia's library

Postcard Memories is a weekly series of historic postcard views and photos submitted by Marcel Rousseau. Some were previously published by the Orillia Museum of Art and History and in the book Postcard Memories Orillia.You can take a trip down memory lane with us each Saturday morning!

This postcard depicts the Public Library, Orillia, circa 1922.

When American businessman Andrew Carnegie retired in 1901 and sold the Carnegie Steel Company to J.P. Morgan, he received $500,000,000. Placed in various trusts, this money was the basis for the philanthropy which then became his full-time occupation.

In total, Andrew Carnegie donated a total of $56,162,622.97 to free public library buildings worldwide. These libraries became known as Carnegie libraries.  

The sum of $2,556,660  was granted for the construction of 125 libraries in Canada. In 1909, after considerable debate, the Orillia council decided to apply for a $10,000 grant. In today’s value $10,000 would be equivalent to about $650,000.

In a letter dated April 15, 1909, Mr. Carnegie’s private secretary, James Bertram, stated they would be glad to give $12,500, to build a free public library provided the town commit to a budget of not less than 10% ($1,250) a year toward its operation and maintenance.

The first plan submitted by architect W. H. Croker was rejected. Council had included a games room and a smoking room and Mr. Carnegie stated the building must be devoted exclusively to education.

Built by Joseph Langman, of Penetanguishene, for a tendered price of $11,715, the 60 ft. by 45 ft. building, on the market corner of Mississaga and Andrew, was officially opened on Dec. 28, 1911.