Carnegie-Evans Public Library

🏢 Monroe County · Albia, Iowa

Carnegie-Evans Public Library

Carnegie-Evans Public Library is the public library of Albia, the Monroe County seat in south-central Iowa, serving the community from 203 E Benton Avenue. With a near-perfect 4.9-star rating from local patrons, it is one of the most highly regarded small-town libraries in the state, open six days a week including evenings on Monday and Tuesday.

📞 (641) 932-2469🌐 bridges.overdrive.com🧭 Get directions
🕑 Hours & visit📖 About⭐ Highlights📚 Services📍 Nearby❓ FAQ

🕑 Library Hours

Monday 10am–7pm
Tuesday 10am–7pm
Wednesday 10am–6pm
Thursday 10am–6pm
Friday 10am–6pm
Saturday 10am–3pm
Sunday Closed

Hours may vary on holidays; check the library site before visiting.

📍 Location, Contact & Directions

Address: 203 E Benton Avenue, ALBIA, IA 52531

Phone: (641) 932-2469

Website: bridges.overdrive.com

Plus Code: 86H925GV+VQ (ALBIA, IA)

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👋 Use the Library Online

&📚Borrow eBooks with Bridges Iowa →&🔍State Library of Iowa resources →

📖 About Carnegie-Evans Public Library

Carnegie-Evans Public Library is the public library of Albia, Iowa — the county seat of Monroe County in south-central Iowa, a region known for its coal-mining heritage and the distinctive octagonal houses of the late nineteenth century. The library serves Albia residents and the broader Monroe County community, providing books, digital media, public computers and community programming. Its dual-name reflects the combined legacy of Carnegie-era library philanthropy and a local Evans family benefactor who contributed to establishing and sustaining the collection. Iowa library cardholders can extend their access to Bridges, Iowa's statewide eBook and eAudiobook service through OverDrive, allowing them to borrow digital titles from the comfort of home.

⭐ What makes this library special

  • Public library of Albia, Monroe County seat in south-central Iowa's historic coal-mining region
  • Named for both the Carnegie library philanthropy tradition and a local Evans family benefactor
  • Rated 4.9 stars — one of the most highly regarded small-town libraries in Iowa
  • Open six days a week, with extended Monday and Tuesday hours until 7pm
  • Access to Bridges, Iowa's statewide eBook and eAudiobook service via OverDrive/Libby

📱 Digital Resources — Free with Your Library Card

Carnegie-Evans cardholders can read and listen for free through Iowa's statewide digital collections:

&📚 Bridges — Iowa eBooks & AudiobooksIowa's statewide digital lending service: borrow e-books and audiobooks through Libby/OverDrive with your Iowa library card.
&🔍 State Library of IowaStatewide resources, research databases and services provided to all Iowans through their public library.

📚 Services

  • Free public library card for Albia and Monroe County residents
  • Books, audiobooks, magazines and digital media
  • Public computers and internet access
  • Interlibrary loan services
  • Reference and reader's advisory assistance
  • Access to Bridges Iowa statewide eBook and audiobook collection

🎸 Programs

  • Youth storytimes and children's programs
  • Summer reading program
  • Adult programming and community events
  • Teen activities and homework help
  • Friends of the Library volunteer and fundraising programs

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name 'Carnegie-Evans' refer to?

The name honors two distinct legacies: the Carnegie tradition of library philanthropy, through which Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of hundreds of public libraries across the United States, and a local Evans family benefactor who contributed to establishing and sustaining the Albia library. Together the name reflects both national and community investment in the library.

What are the library's hours, and which evenings does it stay open late?

Carnegie-Evans Public Library is open Monday and Tuesday 10am–7pm, Wednesday through Friday 10am–6pm, and Saturday 10am–3pm. It is closed on Sundays. Monday and Tuesday are the best evenings to visit after work or school.

Can I borrow e-books with my Carnegie-Evans library card?

Yes. Iowa library cardholders can access Bridges, Iowa's statewide digital lending platform powered by OverDrive and the Libby app. Bridges lets you borrow e-books and audiobooks for free with your library card and download them directly to your phone, tablet or e-reader.

Does Carnegie-Evans serve only Albia residents, or the whole county?

Carnegie-Evans Public Library serves Albia and the broader Monroe County community. Monroe County residents can obtain a free library card and access both the local collection and the statewide Bridges digital lending service.

✓ Hours & details last verified from official sources in September 2026.

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