There is not such a cradle of democracy upon the earth as the Free Public Library, this republic of letters, where neither rank, office, nor wealth receives the slightest consideration.” – Andrew Carnegie
Libraries are essential to an educated, democratic society. Andrew Carnegie recognized that fact in the early 20th century. He funded the establishment of thousands of public libraries around the country, including six in Seattle, to expand free access to knowledge.
Now, the Carnegie Corporation of New York has recognized the role of libraries in addressing a critical demand in 2025. This summer, Carnegie announced a major new grant to expand welcoming education programs for immigrants and refugees…