Carnegie to be celebrated in gala for library's 100th anniversary

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - The Springfield Central Library is offering the public a chance to honor its past and contribute to its future.

Just over 100 years ago, a $260,000 dollar donation from east coast steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie helped pay for the construction of the State Street library and several library branches.

On Thursday, library and city officials announced plans to mark the next hundred years with a celebrational gala called “ An Evening with Andrew Carnegie.”

Organizers expect that the event will raise about $15,000.

“The money will go to Friends of the Springfield Library; a private non-profit .They will give the library funds for programs they will be doing next year,” said Springfield City Library Director Molly Fogarty.

The gala will be held on Saturday April 20. Tickets can by purchased by contacting the Spirit of Springfield at (413) 733-3800.