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Current view of Carnegie-Ellsworth Public Library
Courtesy of the Iowa Falls Historic Preservation Commission |
The Carnegie-Ellsworth Public Library (1904-05), is one of 22 public libraries
in Iowa constructed with Carnegie grants made in 1903, the year which marks the
highest point in Carnegie giving, both nationally and in the state. Eugene S.
Ellsworth made an additional cash donation. Andrew Carnegie's library program,
which funded over 1600 buildings, has been accorded recognition by historians
of the Progressive Era, and of the public library movement. Between 1889 and 1919,
101 Carnegie libraries were built in Iowa, including the Alden
Public Library and Eldora Public Library.
Historic view of Carnegie-Ellsworth Public Library
Courtesy of the Iowa Falls Historic Preservation Commission |
| The Carnegie-Ellsworth Library is one of the more elaborate
library buildings of its size and type. The façade is dominated by a large and
lavish entrance pavilion featuring a distinctive portico with Ionic style columns
set in-antis between rusticated corner piers and a semi-circular window above
the cornice. The effect of richness is enhanced by the variety of materials, textures
and colors. The interior features an octagonal rotunda with a double-curved delivery
desk and a stained-glass dome. The Carnegie-Ellsworth Public Library is located at 520 Rocksylvania
Ave., in Iowa Falls. The building has been restored and is open to the public.
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