Carnegie Library Of Homestead Flourishing With New Revenue Stream

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Just ten short years ago, officials wondered about funding and whether they could keep the Carnegie Library of Homestead open.

Now, some of those issues have been resolved and they've got so many things going on, it's hard to know where to start.

In the next couple months, comedians Paula Poundstone, David Cross and Greg Allman will perform at the library's music hall.

"We have a full service athletic club, with a swimming pool, indoor batting cages, a full court gymnasium. We offer all types of aerobic programs. We have things for Silver Sneakers and toddlers, and we have a grand concert hall," Director of Administration Carol Shrieve said.

The Carnegie Library of Homestead tries to have something for everyone. Each day, more than 700 people pass through their doors.

"I didn't believe it myself until we actually put people counters on the doors, and we monitor it. We average about 743 a day," Shrieve said.

A referendum passed by voters gave them a steady revenue stream now, but it's not enough for all their programs.

"Public funding is always hard to come by, and so we look for ways to generate revenue within the building to help put back into our operations," Shrieve said.

That includes concerts and performances in the music hall. While it is nice to have a facility that seats more than 1,000, the aging hall could use a little help.

"The music hall was built in 1898, and the chairs are still from 1898. So, they are quite uncomfortable and we need to upgrade the seating, the sound system, the lighting," Shrieve said.

It turns out there are about 40 to 50 events every year that are held here at the library. They would like to double that in the coming years.

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter