Taunton Library

Great facility. Very helpful staff.

A
gift
from
Andrew
The late 19^th century is known as the golden age of library building, at least by people that care about such things. Lots of grand, massive and elegant libraries were built by generous donations from private individuals.
But the greatest of all library builders was definitely Andrew Carnegie. From 1883 to 1929 his money was responsible for constructing a staggering 1,681 libraries in the United States, 660 in Great Britain and few more in Serbia and Fiji thrown in for good measure.
Many of these libraries are stand standing and most still serve as libraries. Of course over the years many of the original buildings have been renovated and expanded and the Taunton Library is no exception. A huge section behind the main library gives the library far more room than the original building.
The library is cool and functional with everything you expect from a modern library but still has the charm and charisma of the original. Andrew Carnegie certainly had his fault. but his incredible library building will leave a legacy that will last for centuries.