In Days Gone By Chosen site of Edmonds Carnegie Library was second choice of many

The Edmonds City Council faced community pushback in 1909 when selecting a site for a new Carnegie Library. Many residents opposed the chosen location due to its proximity to an expanding business district and concerns about noise and dirt from nearby industries. The Carnegie Foundation stipulated that cities must own the proposed library site and commit to maintenance funding of at least 10% of the grant annually. Rev. Lockwood represented local citizens in discussions with the Carnegie Foundation to secure funding for a larger library.

Critics pointed out that the site was almost at the city limits and not easily accessible to residents. The library's placement next to the fire tower was also seen as detrimental to the volunteer fire department. The council ultimately decided to proceed with the site despite the objections, leading to the establishment of a significant community resource. Local history highlights the importance of this decision in shaping Edmonds' cultural landscape.