The Carnegie Heritage Center
About
The Carnegie library building was a gift to the town from Andrew Carnegie, among the more than 2,500 libraries he funded worldwide. The brick building was constructed in 1904 on land donated by Caroline Osborn Warren, a descendant of the Edgartown Osborn whaling family who lived next door. The handsome Neoclassical structure served as the town library from 1904 until 2016 when a newer, larger public library building was constructed on another site.
After an extensive restoration, the Vineyard Preservation Trust reopened the landmark and transformed the space into an island Heritage Center. Inside offers a reading library, heritage shop, and a dynamic revolving exhibit, Living Landmarks, which illustrates the historical development of Martha’s Vineyard through the lens of the landmarks in Vineyard Preservation Trust’s care.
Connect with this landmark
The Carnegie Heritage Center is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am-4 pm. Our walking tours are offered Thursday-Saturday at 11 am.
For questions, please email thecarnegie@mvpreservation.org or call 774-549-9107
The Carnegie will be closed for renovations October 22-November 6.
Living Landmarks Exhibition
The Carnegie houses the permanent exhibition Living Landmarks, which illustrates the story of Martha’s Vineyard through the lens of the 20 landmarks in Vineyard Trust’s care.
There is a $5 suggested donation to view the Living Landmarks exhibition.
Reading Rooms
The Carnegie includes two reading rooms featuring historical and maritime literature and the Ray Ellis Maritime Collection of original art.
The light-filled furnished spaces also include cabinets of curiosities that reflect the inspiring people, places, and landscapes that dynamically contribute to island life.
Gift Shop
The Carnegie’s gift shop focuses on books about Martha’s Vineyard. Local authors have written many of the books we have for sale. There are puzzles, tote bags, tea towels and so much more!
Your purchase will directly support The Carnegie and the work of Vineyard Preservation Trust. Plus, the bonus of supporting our thriving island community.
Buy A Brick
Support the preservation of The Carnegie by purchasing a brick for the front walkway.
Each brick can be inscribed with an individual, family, or organization name of your choice.
$1,000 per brick.
Those interested should contact Jeanne White: jeanne@mvpreservation.org
Events At The Carnegie
Edgartown, MA