Andrew Carnegie Library 1906-1978

This iconic Classic Revival-style structure was built in 1906 with a $10,000 grant from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation and some $ 1,500. in locally raised funds. It served as Corona’s public library until 1971. The dark wood interior trim contrasted with its cream colored walls and pillars. There were large fireplaces in each main-floor room, and a large dome-like central skylight ensured diffused lighting for daytime patrons. Sadly, rather than repurposing this treasured building, it was abruptly demolished in 1978 to make way for a Pioneer Chicken franchise, which was never built. A medical office building, named Carnegie Medical Plaza, now occupies the site.

Below are the National Registry application particulars:

Carnegie, Andrew, Library (added to the National Registry in 1977 – Building – #77000324)

Also known as Old Corona Public Library

Location: Eighth and Main Streets, (805 Main Street, Corona)

Historic Significance: Event, Architecture/Engineering

Architect, builder, or engineer: Bloom, S.L., Burnham, Franklin Pierce

Architectural Style: Classical Revival

Area of Significance: Architecture, Social History

Period of Significance: 1900-1924

Owner: Local Gov’t (until demolition in 1978)

Historic Function: Education Historic Sub-function: Library

1977 Function: Vacant/Not In Use

Current Function: Demolished in 1978 and replaced with a medical office building in 2016