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January 24, 2003 - Stirling Library - Part of the Carnegie Legacy
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 The Stirling library is a superb example of Scots Baronial architecture by Harvey Ramsay Taylor of Edinburgh. The intentionally asymmetrical design is cleverly balanced, with the main feature being the massive round tower at the corner. The remainder of the façade is highly decorated with many intricate details. This building illustrates the attempts by many of the architects of the time to revive the older Scottish style, and to move away from classical influences. Taylor's use of Ionic columns at the doorway, however, shows how ubiquitous classical elements could still be.
The foundation stone was laid by Mrs Louise Carnegie on 11th October 1902, after Andrew Carnegie had received the freedom of the burgh. The library was officially opened on 6th February 1904 by Provost Thomson, who then sent a cablegram to Mr. Carnegie in New York City. Its current use is as the central library for Stirling Council.
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