The Nyack Library
The Nyack Library was established in 1879 as a community-based organization that charged annual membership dues. It was chartered by the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York on September 10, 1890. The Library was moved to various storefront sites over a period of twenty-five years, until its permanent facility at 59 South Broadway in Nyack was opened on February 12, 1904 on land purchased from the DePew family. Andrew Carnegie, the noted philanthropist, provided the funds to build the Library.
The Carnegie Room
Our much-loved Carnegie Room is the original Nyack Library, built in 1904 by Marshall and Henry Emery with a $15,000 grant from well-known businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. In the early 20th Century, a Carnegie library was one of the most imposing structures in hundreds of small American communities. The architecture was typically simple and formal, welcoming visitors to enter through a prominent doorway. Our own beloved Library was built in the Arts and Crafts style, the original clock still sits above the fieldstone fireplace, and there is a portrait of Andrew Carnegie himself, who became known as “the patron saint of libraries.”
Over the years the Carnegie Room has become a soughtafter haven, providing inspiration and information to many people. Indeed, the community takes great pride in this landmark building. The Library is delighted to be able to provide a permanent home for the Soiree Society for the Arts, which presents the Carnegie Room Concerts. Each Saturday evening the room sparkles with the talents of outstanding musicians creating an inviting, enriching and social atmosphere compatible with the distinct charm of the Carnegie Room.
Carnegie Room Restoration
Over a century of service has taken its toll on the Carnegie Room, and we invite you to play a part in the preservation and restoration of this very unique building.
THE LIBRARY’S OBJECTIVES FOR THE RESTORATION:
• The existing hardwood floors, wood paneling and columns will be repaired, restored and refinished
• The heating and air conditioning units will be updated
• New interior paint
• New window treatments
• The stone fireplace will be converted to a gas fire, with a glass fixture for protection
• Two new area rugs
• Repairs will be made to the roof, gutters and chimney
• Renovation of the entryway and two wood entrance doors have been completed
All the renovations will be in a style consistent with the original design, in order to preserve and enhance the charm and character of the room. As Andrew Carnegie believed, great libraries define great communities; please help us by honoring the past while building a solid gateway to the future. The Nyack Library would like to recognize all donors contributing $1,000 or more on a Plaque, while all donations up to $1,000 ($999 or less) will be recognized in a Donor Book. Both the Plaque and Donor Book will be permanently on display in the Library.
Please make checks payable to The Nyack Library and mail to the Nyack Library, 59 South Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960. For further information please visit our website at www.thenewchapter.org or contact Bonnie Elder Yassky at 845.358.0734 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it