Carnegie Library

Yes, I am definitely taking you to see a library, but not just any library! The Carnegie Library is a true Art Deco masterpiece,reason being that Reims is considered the French capital of this style, which appeared in the 1920s. After all, three quarters of the city had been destroyed in the war, so in the 1920s it was necessary to start rebuilding. Numerous donors helped to finance this enormous work. Born in Belgium, Art Deco gradually spread to France, before declining in the 1930s. In this style, right angles are rejected, and great importance is given to the elegance of geometric lines. Additionally, spiral motifs or designs reminiscent of flowers or fruits are incorporated to achieve a minimalist and refined outcome. To that, add a simple pediment, and you have Art Deco. Carnegie library is a perfect illustration, with its pediment and subtle tree-like decorations above the two columns, a very simple style and a rounded shape at the back of the building. Opened in 1928, it was named after the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, which greatly helped to finance its construction. The foundation itself was named after the Scottish and later American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, one of the key contributors to the development of the steel industry in the United States. The library contains over 400,000 documents, mainly devoted to the study, conservation and enhancement of heritage. You are more than welcome to enter the building to discover its interior decoration!