The Laurens Public Library is among several area libraries receiving a $10,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, part of a $250 million nationwide initiative celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
The “Carnegie Libraries 250” program honors the legacy of Andrew Carnegie, who funded more than 1,600 public libraries across the U.S. in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, over 1,200 of those libraries—including Laurens—are still serving their communities.
Library Director Glenda Mulder says she was initially skeptical when she received the email.
Laurens’ original Carnegie building opened in 1910 and now houses the Pocahontas County Historical Museum. The current library, located next door, continues to serve as a modern resource for the community.
The grant will be delivered in January 2026. According to the Carnegie Corporation, each Carnegie Library may use the funds however they wish to celebrate the anniversary, further their mission, and serve their community.
Mulder says the library board will work with the community to decide how to use it.
Other Carnegie area libraries receiving the grant include Storm Lake, Cherokee, Spencer, Rockwell City, Lake City, Sheldon, Sanborn, and Carroll.
The Carnegie Corporation says the initiative is meant to strengthen civic institutions and promote community engagement—values libraries have long upheld.
