Carnegie Library (Current)
Our Journey
Transform a Library Into a Museum
Together, we can restore a beloved landmark, strengthen our community, and create a place where children can imagine, discover, and grow.
How the dream began
A community question became a community movement.
In 2023, hundreds of parents, caregivers, educators, and community members shared what kind of children's museum would best serve this region. Their message was clear: families need affordable, welcoming places to gather, learn, and play together, especially through long Upper Peninsula winters.
Today, local volunteers are working through a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit to transform Escanaba's historic Carnegie Library into a vibrant children's museum serving Delta and Schoolcraft Counties.
The building we love
Preserving the Past. Building the Future.
For generations, the Carnegie Library served as a place of learning and connection. Together, we can bring new life to this treasured landmark while creating something extraordinary for future generations.
See ways to helpFrom the archives
The Carnegie Library in the community record.
Progress timeline
Every step is powered by community support.
-
2023
Community Survey
Families, educators, and neighbors helped define the need.
Listening -
2023
Nonprofit Formation
The organization took shape around a shared community vision.
Founded -
2024
Museum Vision Development
Exhibit ideas, partnerships, and visitor experiences were explored.
Designed -
2026
Capital Campaign
Community support turns plans into funding momentum.
Now -
2026
Building Acquired
The Carnegie Library became the future home of the museum.
Acquired -
2027
Renovations Begin
Restoration, accessibility, exhibits, and family spaces move forward.
Build -
2028
Museum Opening
Doors open for children, caregivers, school groups, and the community.
Open
Ways to help
Choose your way into the build.
Community & corporate supporters
Thank you to our supporters!
Local businesses, organizations, and donors are already helping build the dream.
Silver Cloud Donors
$10,000+
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- Bark River Lions Club
- Escanaba Rotary Club
Bronze Sky Donors
$5,000+
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- Kiwanis Escanaba
- Meijer
- Delta County 100+ Women Who Care
- Edward J Sackerson Charitable Foundation
- United Way Delta County
- Bay de Noc Brewers
- Val Hickner
- Youth Assistance Program
Donors
$1,000+
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- Overdose Awareness of Delta County
- Girl Scouts of the Northwestern Great Lakes
- Great Lakes Podiatry
- First Lutheran ChurchGladstone, Michigan
- Alger Delta Electric
- Community Foundation for Delta County
- Delta County YAC
- Julie MallardIn memory of Eric Mallard
- Tim Kobasic Memorial Fund
- In memory of Donny Rivard & Shalia Anderson
- Martha Carlyon Family
$500+ Donors
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- Ford River Lions Club
- Bay de Noc Lions Club
- John D’Mato
- Zane Radloff
- In memory of Gorg Reed
- Escanaba Aerie, FOE
- UPPCOUpper Peninsula Power Company
In-Kind Support
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- Elmer’s Country Market
- DTE
- Upper Peninsula State Bank
- Acrisure
- Community Foundation for Delta County
- Saunders Point Brewing
- City of Escanaba
- Scott Moser, Key Realty
Recognition can appear on the website, social media, donor communications, campaign materials, and permanent on-site signage.
Every gift matters
Help open the doors.
Every donation, partnership, and volunteer effort moves the museum closer to a place where local children can play, explore, and learn.