Architect unknown

Carnegie Classical Revival Style

2 1/2 Jewett Street, Rockport MA  01966-1699

A Brief History of the Building

1903:  The town voted on November 11 to accept Andrew Carnegie's $10,000 gift to build the library.

1904:  The cornerstone was laid on December 3. During construction, a local donor provided funds to install an Italian marble floor under the dome of the main floor.

1906:  The new library building opened on February 3.  Its total cost was less than $10,000.

1963: An adult reading room was added to the west side.  It opened in January 1964.  A children's room was created in the basement at some point during this building's history.

1993:  Library services moved to 17 School Street.

This building is currently up for sale.  It includes approximately 4,900 sq. feet of land, a building size 2,248 sq. feet, plus 1,634 sq. foot heated basement.  Minimum price is $506,800.  Proposal deadline is 9 a.m., July 27, 2007.  Contact Michael J. Racicot, town of Rockport, (978) 546-6786.