Maquoketa Public Library
Introduction
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The Maquoketa Public Library has served the community since it opened in 1904. Architecturally, it is an excellent example of the Classical Revival style and its design is similar to that of other public libraries in Iowa built in the early 1900s. It features a portico with Ionic columns, Bedford limestone trim and, inside, a rotunda with columns. The library was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.
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Maquoketa Public Library was built in 1904 and is a good example of Classical Revival architecture. Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie paid for a large portion of the construction and property cost.
Backstory and Context
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The library's roots date back to 1851 when the Maquoketa Literary Society was founded. Later in 1885 another organization called the Boardman Library Institute was established. By the early 1900s, Maquoketa had become prosperous enough to be able to erect buildings for specific purposes. At that time as well, philanthropist and industrialist Andrew Carnegie was donating money to communities around the country for the purpose of building libraries. Maquoketa requested funds from Carnegie and he sent a grant of $12,500 for the project and the community paid the rest of the cost. The library has been maintained and remains in good condition. It is one of 101 libraries built in Iowa with funds donated by Carnegie.
Sources
Naumann, Molly Myers. "Maquoketa Public Library." National Park Service - National Register of Historic Places Nomination Form. December 27, 1989. https://npgallery.nps.gov/NRHP/GetAsset/NRHP/89002102_text.
Wikimedia Commons: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Maquoketa_Public_Library.JPG