carnegie branch library, Savannah, Georgia

Built in 1914, the Prairie Style building served as a community library for the African American citizens. Efforts restored the closed and deteriorating structure and incorporated the latest technological advancements.

Additions house new restrooms, staff work areas and electronic classrooms. Reconstructed columns frame the main entrance, and interior plaster work and decorative woodwork were preserved.

The restoration honors the Library’s architectural and cultural contributions to history and provides a “Virtual Library” and community destination for future generations.

This preservation project has won many awards throughout the years including:
Preservation Award, Historic Savannah Foundation
Architectural Excellence Award, American Institute of Architects
Excellence in Rehabilitation Award, Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation
Outstanding Preservation of the Year, Georgia Trust Marguerite Williams Award
Design Award, National Trust for Historic Preservation

SPECIFICATIONS

4,232 sf rehabilitation

Two 2,100 sf additions

Client: Live Oak Public Libraries