In 1910 the citizens of Strathcona presented a petition to council for a library. Land was purchased and even Andrew Carnegie offered $15,000 towards building a library. The cities of Strathcona and Edmonton amalgamated in 1912 and by March 13 of 1913 the new library officially opened its doors.
Excellent history behind this building. It's odd to think that nowadays people wouldn't want a library so much- everything is at your fingertips on the internet.