Carnegie Library, Colorado Springs

Situated atop a hill with sweeping views of Pikes Peak, the Carnegie Library owes its existence to the generosity of General William Jackson Palmer, the town's esteemed founder, who donated the site for its construction. Andrew Carnegie, a renowned philanthropist, provided the substantial sum of $60,000 to cover the construction costs.

Designed by Calvin Kiessling, associated with the prestigious Boston firm Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge, the Carnegie Library boasts a Classical Revival style with Roman influences, a hallmark of Carnegie libraries of the time. The design prioritizes optimal lighting and picturesque views of the Front Range through strategically placed windows. The building's aesthetic is further enhanced by ornate wrought iron embellishments crafted by the local Hassell Iron Works.

Since its completion in 1905, the Carnegie Library has served as a beacon of knowledge and culture, continuously operating as a library. In 1968, recognizing the need for expansion, a 60,000 square foot addition was constructed facing Cascade Avenue. This addition, known as the Palmer Wing, now houses the library's special collections and Local History resources, including invaluable records of General Palmer's Colorado Springs Company and the papers of local architect Thomas MacLaren. The Carnegie Library's historical and architectural significance is further underscored by its listing in the National Register of Historic Places.