ACCESSIBILITY RETROFIT GUIDEBOOK: A Resource for Carnegie Library Building Owners to Meet ADA Requirements while Preserving Historic Integrity
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Date
2013
Authors
Henderson, Stacey Renee
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
At the turn of the Twentieth century, public libraries were built in communities big
and small around the United States as a result of donations from Andrew Carnegie. His
philanthropic vision was to turn his "fortune into knowledge, thought, freedom, and power."
and providing these libraries was his way of achieving that goal.2 These buildings
influenced the development of the public library system, library building design, and they
were built in communities that otherwise would not of been able to afford one at the time.
In total, there were 2,509 libraries originally built between 1885 and 1920 throughout
the world, and many are still standing today. 3 In order for these buildings to continue to
support their communities and tell their stories, they need to be updated to comply with
modern demands and building regulations. A common challenge Carnegie library build-
ings face is that their original designs are not compliant with current accessibility laws and
codes such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Although many of these buildings
no longer operate as libraries, most still serve the public in one way or another; therefore,
performing accessibility retrofits is essential and ensures that all building users are
provided the same experience and services.
Description
110 pages