📚In 1901 after selling his corporation for $500 million, steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie announced a $5.2 million donation to the City of New York for the construction of public library buildings. With this gift, 67 branch libraries were constructed in the five boroughs between 1903 and 1929. 📚

Astoria branch of the Queens Public Library, June 2, 1927. One of seven Carnegie Libraries built in Queens, the Astoria branch was designed by Tuthill & Higgins firm and completed in 1904. The library’s original Flemish Revival design featured angled corner entrance, framed by twin chimneys and a curved stepped gable. The distinctive entrance was removed during 1930s-era renovations.

And just like that, another year here at Urban Archive is coming to a close in just a few short days! We've asked our partners to pick some of their favorite stories, images, and facts they encountered this year to share with you. Check them out below!