06/06/2026
Roseville Carnegie Library, circa 1912. Placer County Museums collection.
557 Lincoln Street, Roseville
Between 1890 and 1917, Andrew Carnegie funded the establishment of 1,679 public libraries in the United States including 142 in California. Three of these libraries were built in Placer County, in the cities of Lincoln, Roseville, and Auburn.
Carnegie made his fortune in the steel industry which he sold in 1901 to J.P. Morgan for $480 million. As a philanthropist, Carnegie saw libraries as being an important public service and vital for community benefit through providing knowledge and opportunities for self-education. To receive one of his library grants, communities needed at least 1,000 residents, a suitable site, and a commitment to a 10% tax of the total gift annually for maintenance, books, and staff.
The Roseville Carnegie Library, a vision of the Women’s Improvement Club in 1910, received a $10,000 grant in 1911. The site was donated by A.B. McRae, and architect W.H. Weeks designed the building, incorporating architectural elements from Gladding McBean and Company in Lincoln. Dedicated in October 1912, the library served as Roseville's main public library until September 1979, when a new library building opened. It continued as a branch until 1982, when it closed due to costs and declining circulation. Since then, the Roseville Historical Society has managed repairs and fundraising efforts to preserve the historic building and interpret the history of Roseville through its museum.
On Saturday, June 6th, the Roseville Carnegie Museum will open its doors from 10am – 4pm as part of the Heritage Trail Museums Tour throughout Placer County. Stop by to explore historic Roseville and step inside a former Carnegie Library.
To learn more https://www.placer.ca.gov/7375/Heritage-Trail
