History of the Library

The Round Table Club and the Deadwood Women’s Club organized Deadwood’s first public library. In 1903, these women's groups facilitated negotiations between the Deadwood City Commission and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie for funds to build a library.

On April 17, 1903, the City Commission accepted Carnegie’s proposal of $15,000.00 for the construction of a new library.

Within six months, plans from local architect Charles A. Randall were adopted by the Commission, calling for a one story, Greek style structure. Local contractors Mullen & Munn were awarded the contract and work officially began on March 28th, 1904.Over the next nineteen months, articles on the progress of the library appeared in local newspapers.

On November 8, 1905, the library was officially dedicated in front of a large crowd of spectators. Deadwood Mayor Edward McDonald delivered a speech on the importance of a public library and its benefit to the community. Today, the Carnegie Library continues to serve the citizens of Deadwood and Lawrence County and its many visitors. 

We welcome you all to come see for yourself what an exquisite conserved library it still is today!