11/07/2025
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Recently, our library received some unexpected news: we will receive a $10,000 gift from Carnegie Corporation of New York in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. 🎉
Carnegie Libraries hold a special place in American history and in the hearts of generations of Americans. Between 1886 and 1917, Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of 1,681 libraries nationwide. Today about 1,280 are still serving their communities.
We’re proud to be one of them!
A Brief History of the Onawa Public Library
The Onawa Public Library has long been a cornerstone of our community. From its beginnings, local citizens believed in creating a free library to enrich the lives of all. This dream became reality thanks to Judge Addison Oliver, whose generosity and vision made the library possible. As Mrs. C.E. Underhill wrote, Judge Oliver gave “with a heart full of desire to be a permanent help to those around him.”
In 1901, the Art Club and Board of Trustees began planning the library. Judge Oliver offered to purchase and donate the old Congregational Church and its lots, along with $4,000 for books and furnishings, provided the town would support the building’s upkeep. The first book order was placed in July 1902, and Miss Maude Oliver became the library’s first librarian.
As the community’s needs grew, efforts began for a new building. In 1907, Judge Oliver pledged $20,000—half for construction and half as a permanent endowment—on the condition that additional funds be raised. Andrew Carnegie soon offered $10,000 to help complete the project.
Local families donated land at the library’s current location, and construction began under architects Patton and Miller of Chicago. A year later, the library was completed. On October 17, 1908, the town gathered to celebrate the laying of the cornerstone—a proud moment in Onawa’s history. Many items and photographs were sealed inside, where they remain to this day.
Through the decades, the library has thrived thanks to the dedication of trustees, volunteers, staff, and supporters—many of whom served for generations. The Friends of the Library group, established in 1987 and reorganized in 1994, continues to promote and strengthen library services. The library was expanded and renovated during 2005, which was provided by a bond issue and capital campaign, preserving the historical integrity of the original building while providing much needed additional space for our growing community needs.
Today, the Onawa Public Library remains a vital institution—rooted in history, built on generosity, and committed to serving our community for generations to come.
👉 Learn about the initiative: carnegie.io/47kNpzh
🗺️ Find our library on this interactive map of Carnegie Libraries across America: carnegie-libraries.carnegie.org
💌 Submit your stories and photos to the Carnegie Libraries digital archives: carnegielibraries.org
