Want to Own Your Own Library? Here’s Your Shot.
Article excerpt
If you've ever wanted to take up residence in a library, here's your chance: these former Carnegie libraries are up for sale.
Many book lovers dream of owning and curating an expansive home library.
But how many book lovers dream of owning an actual library and calling it home?
Good news if you’re in the market: you can own your very own former Carnegie Library right now.
There are currently two on the market for you to choose from, and while both will need some work, they’re both fairly priced and offer plenty of opportunity to get totally nerdy.
Kendallville, Indiana’s first public library is on the market.
Built in 1913 and one of the original Carnegie Libraries, this building served as the town’s public library until 1968.
Since, it’s been a number of things, including a law firm, vintage clothing store, and an art gallery.
For $250,000, you can own this piece of history (& yes, it has lots of the original touches from the library inside and out!).
Here’s the complete listing, with tons of photos.
The former Neligh, Nebraska public library is currently listed for $369,000, after a recent $25,000 price cut.
It operated as a library from 1883 to 1929, and in the 2000s, it was transformed into a private residence.
Many of the classic library architectural features remain throughout. The curved entryways and wood throughout are drool-worthy!
Here’s the complete listing.
Never fear: both Kendallville and Neligh still have operating libraries.
Like many facilities built during the Carnegie era, library growth fueled the need for a new space.
While not all Carnegie Libraries are worth preserving for a myriad of reasons, these two are fine examples of being well-cared for and worthy of new use.