1681 libraries across the U.S., including 28 in Missouri, can trace their existence to donations provided over a century ago by businessman Andrew Carnegie. And for many of the buildings that continue to stand, their design showcases the vision of the Scottish-born industrialist.

Six library buildings in our area were among those built in the early 20th century with funds donated by the Carnegie Corporation. Two of those are part of the Little Dixie Regional Library system in Randolph and Monroe counties. Director Rachael Grime says several features of the library buildings symbolized what Carnegie wanted to achieve, and went through to build his fortune in the steel industry.

Grime says Carnegie also directed that libraries incorporate new and old features to the exterior of each building.

Each Carnegie Library across the U.S. is receiving $10,000 over the next year from the Carnegie Corporation to celebrate America’s 250th birthday and the continuing legacy of each library. Grime says the funds will go toward programming at each of the Little Dixie’s four library branches.