Historic Carnegie Library Restoration
Historic Carnegie Library Restoration Enters Final Phase
The final phase of restoration of the Historic Carnegie Library is now complete. The City awarded a $772,190 contract to JP Structures, Inc. to provide handicapped accessibility through the construction of an elevator, renovate the entire upper and lower level interiors, and complete upgrades to the mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems.
Donations for the TRF Historic Carnegie Library Restoration
Nearly 100 years ago, philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, believing in real and permanent good, offered the City of Thief River Falls the sum of $12,500 to build a public library. The City met Mr. Carnegie’s requirements by matching this with $4,848 in local funding and built the stately Carnegie Library Building that still stands at the corner of Main Avenue and 1st Street. The goal of the “Save the Carnegie” library campaign is to restore the Carnegie to its original grandeur and make it an integral part of the community.
The cost to do this is not insignificant, but we believe that coupled with a goal to make this building a valuable community resource as well as draw more visitors to our downtown, its restoration will pay huge dividends.
The estimated cost to restore the Carnegie Library building and provide handicapped accessibility is $1.1 million. Additional money will be needed for furnishings.
Through the very generous support of Jean and Mark Larson, Gretchen and Gene Beito and the Engelstad Family Foundation coupled with the outpouring of financial support from others in the community, the $1.1 million necessary to restore the building has been raised. But, we still need your help to purchase the furnishings necessary to make this building a viable space. Click here to join your community in saving this historic site.
Why Should We Save and Restore Our Historic Carnegie Library?
- The Carnegie Library was a gift to the City, and as good stewards the community should preserve and maintain this beautiful, historic, local landmark.
- The Carnegie Library earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places because of its architecture and its historical significance.
- Aligning with the goals of TRForward, the Carnegie Library restoration would be the first step towards re-energizing downtown Thief River Falls.
- The Carnegie Library will provide a valuable space to house civic, social and service activities.
- The Carnegie Library will be a gathering place for special events.
- The Carnegie Library will be an asset to Thief River Falls’ downtown.
- The Carnegie Library is a significant piece of local history we should preserve.
Donations of any amount are appreciated and tax-deductible.
Donations of $200 and above will be recognized in the following categories.
Donate Here
$1-$199
Reader - $200 - $499
Author - $500 - $999
Researcher - $1,000 - $1,999
Illustrator - $2,000 - $4,999
Editor - $5,000 - $9,999
Bookbinder - $10,000 - $24,999
Bookseller - $25,000 - $49,999
Librarian - $50,000 - $99,999
Publisher - $100,000+
“Save the Carnegie Library Committee” includes: Gene & Gretchen Beito, Mark & Jean Larson, Faye Auchenpaugh, Odette Bendickson, Jim Dagg, Ben Anderson, Roy Lunde, Paul Ihie, Ron Lindberg, Jodie Torkelson, Elvin Erickson, and Don Stewart as Project Manager.