Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA COUNTY

OKLAHOMA CITY CARNEGIE LIBRARY STATISTICS

The Oklahoma City Carnegie Library received its Carnegie Library grant in several phases. In 1900 they received 25,000.00, in 1907 they received an additional 25,000.00 and in 1908 the final 10,000.00 was awarded for the completion of the furnishings and interior space.

The Carnegie was torn down in 1951 a new library building was raised in its place.

The architect was M. R. Sanguinet, an architect from Fort Worth, Texas.

The Oklahoma City Carnegie Library

The Oklahoma City Carnegie Library was constructed in a variety of styles, including Renaissance and Baroque elements, with a Gothic arched porch just visible at the side. The dramatic projecting front porch created an imposing entrance. The building came to be in a flurry of scandal and claims of misspent monies. The turmoil surrounding the building's creation could be thought of as reflecting the rush to civilize the rapidly growing prairie town of Oklahoma City.

James Bertram wrote the library committee in January 1907 after seeing the photographs of the building, and his response reflects the plain and simple philosophy the Carnegie Corporation held for its libraries:

"In looking at the pictures of present Library Building, one would think that a great deal has been spent on outside display as apart from inside accommodation. That entrance must have cost a good deal."

Another note in February 1907 continues the expression of their displeasure at how the grant money was being spent:

"....In the first place, let me say that looking at the out (sic) of the building which you sent it shows what under the circumstances is about the most unpractical, shortsighted and extravagantly-designed building of the thousands we have lookt (sic) over."

The grand facade must have pleased the library committee and reflected their pride in the accomplishments of their new city, however obviously it did not meet the criteria set forth by Bertram and Carnegie for plain and serviceable buildings. The library construction went on, after much correspondence and many difficulties, to be completed.

The plans for this library were featured in a special issue of the magazine," " where many plans and elevations of Carnegie Libraries across the country were displayed.

Newspaper articles tracked the political difficulties and accusations, and reported the progress of the library's construction. In 1909 it was announced that an additional $10,000.00 had been awarded to complete the interior furnishings.