About Allegheny

The Carnegie Free Library was established by Andrew Carnegie and Allegheny City in 1890. It was the first of 2,509 libraries built worldwide with funds provided by Mr. Carnegie and matched by local municipalities. President Benjamin Harrison attended the opening. The original location served the North Side community until 2006 when it was closed due to a lightning strike.

The new, centrally located facility opened in 2009. It features the Allegheny City history archive with over 1,500 items related to the history of Western Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh and Allegheny City. CLP – Allegheny’s robust teen and children’s areas offer a variety of activities, collections and learning opportunities.

When you are on the North Side be sure to visit. The friendly staff is ready to assist you with your learning and information needs.

North Siders know that CLP – Allegheny is the place to go!

Andrew Carnegie once referred to Allegheny City (now Pittsburgh’s North Side) as his “first love.” Today, CLP – Allegheny is home to a special collection of rare materials dedicated to the history of Allegheny City and the North Side.

• Public Computers
• Free Wi-Fi
• Wireless Printing (small fee may apply)
• Copier (small fee may apply)
• Meeting Rooms
• Air Conditioning
• Courtyard or Outdoor Space
• Exterior Book Return (for after-hours returns)