A Century of Stories: The Remarkable Legacy of Goodland’s Carnegie Library

Tucked near the heart of downtown Goodland stands a building that’s much more than brick and mortar—it’s a time capsule of civic pride, architectural ambition, and cultural evolution. Built in 1912 and opened in 1913 thanks to a grant from Andrew Carnegie, the historic Carnegie Library building has served this northwest Kansas community in many roles across more than a century. Today, it lives on as the Goodland Carnegie Arts Center, a hub for creativity and community connection.

From Philanthropy to Possibility

In the early 1900s, steel magnate Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of libraries across America—nearly 1,700 in total—with a belief that access to knowledge could empower every citizen. Goodland was among 59 Kansas towns to receive one of these grants, securing $10,000 for a library, provided the community committed to maintaining it.

What followed was a lively and at times controversial local campaign. In 1909, voters in Goodland were asked to approve the creation and ongoing support of the library. Among those casting ballots were women—decades before the 19th Amendment granted them nationwide suffrage. One city council member, a blacksmith, opposed the effort, calling Carnegie’s money “tainted.” But in the end, progress won. The people of Goodland approved the measure, and plans moved forward.

A Rare Slice of Renaissance in Rural Kansas

Designed by the Barresen Brothers, Denver-based architects, the library was constructed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style—an unusual architectural choice for the plains of northwest Kansas. Local builder Fred Hunt oversaw construction. With arched windows, decorative brickwork, and elegant symmetry, the building quickly became a landmark in town. Though it sits on less than an acre, its stately design gave it a proud presence.

When the doors opened in 1913, the Carnegie Library wasn’t just a place to check out books—it was a symbol of the town’s aspirations and belief in education, culture, and community.

A Building That Grows with Its Community

For 60 years, the Carnegie Library served as Goodland’s primary public library. But by the 1970s, the community had outgrown the space. In 1973, library services moved to a new, larger building. Rather than fade into obsolescence, the Carnegie structure was repurposed—first as a senior center from 1975 to 1983, and then, with renewed energy and purpose, as a community arts center.

In 1985, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognized for both its historical and architectural value. That same year, the Goodland Arts Council officially established the Carnegie Arts Center, transforming the former library into a gallery and venue for the arts.

A New Chapter in Art and Imagination

Since its rebirth as an arts center, the Carnegie building has continued to evolve. Today, it hosts rotating art exhibits, music recitals, lectures, hands-on workshops, and school programs. The building underwent further remodeling in 2017, improving accessibility and restoring features to better support its modern mission without compromising its historic charm.

Its role as a cultural cornerstone remains as strong as ever. Visitors are greeted by a well-preserved exterior, complete with a refurbished flagpole and commemorative plaque. Inside, vibrant art lines the walls where shelves of books once stood. Creativity echoes in every corner.

A Living Legacy

The Goodland Carnegie building stands as a reminder that history isn’t frozen—it lives, breathes, and adapts. What started as a daring civic project over a hundred years ago has become a lasting monument to Goodland’s spirit. From the progressive women voters of 1909 to today’s artists, musicians, and community members, the building reflects a consistent truth: when a community believes in the power of ideas, remarkable things can happen.

So the next time you walk past those arched windows or step through the doors, remember—you’re not just visiting a building. You’re stepping into a living chapter of Goodland’s story.