1906

The Trustees of the Salinas City Library agree to accept the books from the library of the Salinas WCTU (Woman’s Christian Temperance Union) and look for a suitable room. Meanwhile, the women of the Salinas Civic Club, later the Salinas Woman’s Club, vote to work for a public library building.

1907-1909

In February of 1907, the Salinas City Council pledges to support the Civic Club’s efforts. Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie promises the $10,000 in April. By December 1907 the Club is ready to place $2,200 down for the $4,000 Coulter lot on the southeast corner of Main and San Luis Streets. The slough on the property is promptly filled and the ground graded. More money is raised through donations and special events such as “skating parties, musicales, baseball games, lectures, concerts, theater parties, balls, dances, tag days, teas,” etc. San Jose architect Jacob Lentzen prepares plans and the specifications for the Classical Revival style building. On November 4, 1909 Carrie Miller Striening who works for the system until 1936, opens the Carnegie library building to the public at 2:00 in the afternoon.

1931

Miss Amanda Anderson of Cody Wyoming is hired as librarian while Miss Striening continues as assistant. By now there are over 10,000 citizens in Salinas.

1940

Artist Lester Boronda, of the pioneer Boronda family donates a collection of his paintings to the library in memory of his father, Sylvano Boronda.

1944

The Salinas Public Library hires Pauline Pearson, who will later be recognized for her research on John Steinbeck in Salinas.