1912 – Public Library, Regina, Saskatchewan

In 1910, after an approach from the city of Regina, Andrew Carnegie provided an initial grant of $30,000.00 for a new library building which was subsequently increased to $50,000.00. Just six weeks after opening in June 1912, a tornado struck Regina. The new library was among the many buildings that suffered damage. When Carnegie was contacted, he paid the reconstruction bill of $9,500.00. Demolishd in 1961. The stonework bearing the sign “Regina Public Library” was saved from the old building and placed in the entrance way of the new library building that replaced it.

“The exterior of the hbrary is in stone and buff brick. The building is entirely fireproof with reinforced concrete construction; floors of cork and tile mosaic; stairway of marble. The central rotunda has a domed ceiling with skylight above, accessible to general delivery room, ladies’ reading room, librarian, reference room, and general reading room. A heating plant is provided for in sub-basement at rear in addition to a vacuum steam heating system. The stack room is arranged so that a mezzanine floor can be added to double the capacity. . The library, which is specially noted for its practical arrangement, cost $50,000.00, and exemplifies the general progressive spirit of the Western cities.”
Construction, May 1913

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