The West End neighborhood sits just across the West End Bridge from Heinz Field and is only minutes from Downtown Pittsburgh and Station Square. The West End holds historical significance as a neighborhood that was once known as "Temperanceville" and which also is home to an original colonial tavern of southwestern Pennsylvania, currently known as the "Old Stone Tavern." The West End includes residences, businesses and several library operations, including the offices of the Allegheny County Library Association (ACLA) and the Library Support Center, which houses the distribution center for shipment of library materials among all Allegheny County Libraries.

CLP – West End is one of the original Carnegie Library buildings, opened in 1899. This neighborhood location is home to the very first children’s storytime in Pittsburgh libraries, and continues the tradition by offering a popular circulating collection of children’s materials, as well as regular children’s programming. CLP – West End also has a popular circulating collection of teen and adult materials, with the latest bestsellers in print and electronic media. In keeping with our historical roots, we have a small history collection including books, photos and other ephemera of materials directly related to the West End neighborhood and its history.

Along with our historical collection of materials, the Library houses dozens of handmade replicas of buildings in the West End neighborhood. Replicas include homes, business, churches and, of course, the Library — all of which are on permanent display inside CLP – West End. In addition to the unique building replicas, the panels of the storytime room cupboards are a display of local talent. Created by Theodore Hamiel, a former employee of Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, the painted cupboards depict scenes from classic children’s literature and were left intact after the 2014 renovation of the Library.

Individuals and families continue to enjoy storytimes, books, creative learning programs, career support and more at this historical landmark!

The CLP – West End staff are looking forward to assisting you on your next visit to the Library.