|
The Picton Branch of the Prince Edward County Library, a building of historical significance that graces Picton's Main street, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year (2007). One of a limited number of Carnegie designed libraries in Ontario, the building retains much of its original structure and charm, including oak pillars, elegant archways and a handsome fireplace. Andrew Carnegie's name is perhaps most associated with Carnegie Hall, but this Scottish immigrant turned American industrialist and philanthropist felt that the most significant contribution that could be given to a community was a free library, and he devoted much of his funding and energy to the cause. It's interesting to note that when the Carnegie buildings began to spring up in Ontario, they were not all free lending libraries, and many would not let children borrow books. In others, fiction was locked off and not freely available. As revealed in The Best Gift - A Record of the Carnegie Libraries in Ontario, by Beckman, Langmead, and Black, "Many libraries, however, did give free access to all collections: Paris, Picton, Guelph, Chatham, Bracebridge and Harriston were examples of this more advanced thinking." Further "advanced thinking" saw the Town of Picton corresponded with Mr. Carnegie's private secretary in 1908, requesting a photograph of the philanthropist to hang in the library in recognition of his contribution. In February of that year, the request was answered. "Mr. Carnegie tenders his thanks for the appreciative resolution," wrote his secretary "...and has much pleasure in sending you his picture as requested." The portrait still hangs in the library. This year, the library celebrates its centenary. In honour of the occasion, the Board of the County of Prince Edward Public Library hopes to replace the front doors of the Picton Carnegie building to more closely resemble the original wooden doors, which were replaced in 1967. "There is a practical reality to be served as the current doors are in need of replacement" says the library"s CEO Barbara Sweet, "but also the board believes that the restoration of the historic façade would add much to the charm and sense of history of Picton's downtown core." Grants are being sought to fund this important heritage project, and donations to further the work are also most welcome. Contact Barbara Sweet for further information at 613-476-5962 or e-mail: bsweet@peclibrary.org. |
