We’re excited to announce that our library has received a $10,000 gift from the Carnegie Corporation of New York as part of #CarnegieLibraries250, an initiative marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Carnegie Libraries hold a special place in American history and in the hearts of generations of Americans. Learn more at carnegie.io/47kNpzh
🗺️ Find Carnegie Libraries across America on this interactive map: carnegie-libraries.carnegie.org
💌 Submit your memories and photos to the Carnegie Libraries digital archives: carnegielibraries.org
Press Release
Orland Free Library Receives $10,000 Gift from Carnegie Corporation of New York
Orland, CA February 5, 2026 — The Orland Free Library has received a $10,000 gift from Carnegie Corporation of New York, the foundation established by Andrew Carnegie. The award is part of Carnegie Libraries 250, a special initiative celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and honoring the roughly 1,280 Carnegie Libraries still serving their communities across the United States.
Scottish immigrant Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of 1,681 free public libraries nationwide between 1886 and 1917. Approximately 750 of them continue to use their original buildings, while others have moved to new locations. Opened in 1920, our library is one of 142 Carnegie Libraries in California built through this historic program.
“This gift is a tribute to the enduring spirit of Carnegie Libraries and the way they’ve brought knowledge, opportunity, and connection to communities nationwide for more than a century. The Orland Free Library is honored to be a part of that incredible legacy.” said Jody Halsey Meza, Library Director.
“Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, who championed the free public library movement of the late 19th century, described libraries as ‘cradles of democracy’ that ‘strengthen the democratic idea, the equality of the citizen, and the royalty of man,’” said Dame Louise Richardson, president of Carnegie and former head of the University of Oxford. “We still believe this and are delighted to celebrate our connection to the libraries he founded.”
The Orland Free library received the gift in January, 2026, and we will be using the funds to celebrate the 250th anniversary, further our mission, and benefit our community.
Patrons are invited to share their Orland Carnegie Library photos, stories, and community celebrations at carnegielibraries.org.
For media inquiries:
Orland Free Library
Jody Halsey Meza | jmeza@cityforland.com| 530-865-1640
Carnegie Corporation of New York
Angely Montilla | AEM@carnegie.org | 347-360-7803
Carnegie’s news release: https://www.carnegie.org/news/articles/hundreds-of-carnegie-libraries-to-receive-10000-gifts-in-celebration-of-united-states-250th-anniversary/