[LIB11242] - The Alexandria Public Library is one of 65 public libraries built in Minnesota with funds from Andrew Carnegie and the Carnegie Corporation. The Alexandria Public Library is a one storey building that rests on a raised basement defined by a smooth stone water table. The exterior is faced with light brown pressed brick with an ashlar gray limestone base. The roof is a low, hipped covered with asphalt shingles. The Beaux Arts inspired building has nine bays on the main facade and the entrance consists of a three bay portico featuring two fluted columns and four brick pilasters. The emphasis on the entrance space creates a grand opening to the interior of the building and is characteristic of Carnegie Library design. At the time of construction the interior was furnished with quarter-sawn white oak furniture, the majority of which was produced by the Alexandria Manufacturing Company purchased in 1903 specifically for the new library. [Website]
