Carnegie Libraries in Texas, Franklin Carnegie library. (original) (raw)

Built with a grant of $7,500 in 1913 the Franklin Library has provided an array of services over the years. For several years the elementary school across the street conducted first and second grade classes there and the High School sports teams used the basement as a dressing room. The basement also served as a domicile for the school superintendent.

An oil painting of Mr. Carnegie hangs over the librarian's desk, which may have intimidated more than a few of the 78 borrowers who have not returned books (the painting -- not the desk). Next month Texas Escapes will publish these 78 names in the hope of shaming them into clearing their conscience.

Book fines and rentals in a recent year totaled $10 and this matched the amount spent on furniture repairs. Before it was remodeled leaks in the guttering caused water to enter the basement and it went unused for sometime. Sand was added to absorb the dampness and reduce the mosquito population. Rumors of frogs, spiders and snakes were circulated among the school children who had their classes above and when these rumors reached the ears of the teacher she asked, "How would anyone know what's there without going down there? You children haven't been down there have you?" The answer was a resounding but unconvincing "NOOOOO! "