ACFL news 0607.qxd - Andrew Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall

The Andrew
Carnegie Free
Library & Music
Hall Campaign
Honorary Chair
Robert Gordon*
Co-Chairs
Charles R. Goetz*
William E. Manby*
Blue Ribbon Committee
Joseph Aloe
Dolores Smith Barber
William Bayer
William W. Beck
Rocky Bleier
Dr. Robert J. Boyda
Carolyn and Bill Byham
Ralph E. Cindrich, Esq.
William F. English*
Jean D. Falk
Ted Ford
Ted Frantz*
Geoff Gibson
Vincent J. Grogan, Esq.
Ethel O. Hansen
The Hon. Larry Harkovich
Lee Harris
Gregory B. Jordan
Patricia Prattis Jennings
John M. Kish
Jim Knepper
The Hon. Nick Kotik
Dr. Michael and Rose
Kutsenkow*
John Leone
Jim Leyland
John E. Lyncheski, Esq.
Betsy Bell Martin*
Robert W. Meyer
Dr. Attila Molnar
The Hon. Tim Murphy
Charles R. Novelli
Morgan K. O’Brien*
The Hon. James L.
Pascoe*
The Hon. John R. Pippy
The Hon. Douglas Price
Malcolm Prine
Wasyl A. Pysh
George Raftis II
The Hon. Rick Santorum
Roger F. Sembrat, VMD
Joseph Senko
Anthony Sinatra
James C. Stalder
The Hon. Thomas L.
Stevenson
Judy Thompson
Dick Thornburgh
Thomas B. Trebilcock
J. Graham Turnbull
The Hon. Jack Wagner
Fund Raising Counsel
A.L. Brourman
Associates, Inc.
* Steering Committee Members
A National Historic Landmark
Restoration Leads to Surge in Programming
Fewer than three years after
launching the capital campaign to
restore the ACFL&MH to its
original grandeur and enhance it as
a 21st century resource, numbers for
both Library & Music Hall use have
increased dramatically.
“The variety and numbers of
programs taking place is really
astonishing,” said Maggie Forbes,
executive director of the facility.
“It’s becoming a bit of a challenge to
keep up with all the requests for
music hall and reception hall usage.”
Since January the assorted Music
Hall roster has included a belly
dance performance, Stage 62’s
Cinderella and Carnegie Performing
Arts Center’s Madeleine and Little
Princess for children and “Rock for
History,” a garage band benefit for
the Historical Society of Carnegie.
Duquesne University performed a
full-stage production of Mozart’s
opera The Marriage of Figaro in
April, followed the next day with
the nationally touring Ukrainian
Bandurist Chorus. Home Front and
Acoustic Shadows of the Blue and
Gray set toes tapping with fiddle and
banjo and Civil War era song.
Lynne Rossetto Kasper Returns!
Food guru Lynne Rossetto
Kasper returns to the ACFL&MH
in October for our annual benefit
event.
The ever popular host of the The
Splendid Table (which can be heard
locally on WDUQ 90.5 FM Sunday
afternoons at 4:00 p.m.) was here in
2004. Ms. Kasper charmed an
enthusiastic audience with an event
that cleared more than $50,000 for
the campaign to restore the
ACFL&MH.
Lynne Rossetto Kasper is an
award-winning cookbook author
Lynne at the reception following her 2004
presentation with Reed Smith’s
Kaveri Subbarao.
Stage 62’s Cinderella went over the top for
both children and adults in February 2007.
whose weekly radio program from
American Public Media celebrates
food and how it touches our lives
and feeds our souls—as Lynne
“I have my October dates
for returning to the
Andrew Carnegie Free
Library & Music Hall
circled in red on the
calendar.”
—Lynne Rossetto Kasper
herself describes it, it is a show “for
people who love to eat!” First airing
on Minnesota Public Radio in 1994,
The Splendid Table is “a culinary,
cultural and lifestyle program that
features great recipes, captivating
conversations and terrific travel tips
for some of America’s regional
kitchens and cuisines.”
“We join the ranks of the
millions around the country who
love Lynne,” enthuses executive
director Maggie Forbes. “Not only
did she set the bar for a completely
successful benefit, but she modeled
the sort of outstanding
SUMMER 2007
Basso Vitaliy Lomakin gave a
recital in June including both arias
and traditional Ukrainian and East
European folk songs, followed by
Ellen Gozion’s concert of traditional
folk songs from America and the
British Isles.
The season closes with Company
in July. Stage 62’s productions of
Stephen Sondheim’s work are
becoming a crowd-pleasing tradition.
The ACFL&MH produces an
Annual Program, which will be
available at Carnegie’s Arts and
Heritage Festival in September.
However, www.carnegiecarnegie.com
remains the most reliable way to stay
on top of all the programming—postpublication
bookings are
commonplace.
See “Surge in Programming”, page 9
programming we hope to make a
regular feature here at the Library &
Music Hall.”
While details for Ms. Kasper’s
appearance are being developed,
mark your calendars for October 20
and 21. “Apparently Lynne is as
fond of the ‘Carnegie Carnegie’ as
we are of her,” says Ms. Forbes.
“She’s agreed to be here for two
days.”
“I have my October dates for
returning to the Andrew Carnegie
Free Library & Music Hall circled in
red on the calendar,” says Lynne.
See “Kasper event”, page 9
If Our Friends Could
See Us Now
See pages 5 through 8 for a recap of the
whirlwind of shows and programs in both the
library and music hall.

2
ACFL&MH Board
of Trustees
Ron Moehler
President
Bob Moll
Vice President
Ron Parker
Treasurer
Isabel Ford
Secretary
Jacie Bejster
Rosanna Bogats
Ken Bowman
Chris Brussalis
Ross Feltz
Gary Frantz
John Kish
Tim Volk
Ex-Officio Members
Fred Carini
Jim Pascoe
Vera Freshwater
Library Hours
Tues., Wed., Thurs.
10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday & Monday
Closed
Summer Hours
(July and August)
Tues., Wed., Thurs.
10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Sunday & Monday
Closed
ACFL&MH
Website
www.carnegiecarnegie.com
The official registration and
financial information of the
Chartiers Valley Partnership
may be obtained from the
PA Department of State by
calling toll-free within PA
1-800-732-0999.
Registration does not imply
endorsement.
A Message to Library & Music Hall Supporters
Dear Friends,
You have been following the progress of the campaign to restore the Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music
Hall since late 2003. Our beautiful building looks marvelous! Library staff tell us that patrons comment week in
and week out on the exterior transformation. The building atop this hill of ours is gleaming once more!
Restoration moves indoors in August when work on the Music Hall lobby and entryway begins. Don’t miss
Stage 62’s Company just before construction begins. And be the first to appreciate the improvements when Lynne
Rossetto Kasper returns for our annual benefit in October. This newsletter tracks what a busy performance venue
our acoustically excellent Music Hall has become. From belly dancing to Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro, the last few
months have been amazing!
Nothing captures this more than the day of Civil War programming held on April 28 (see page 4 for
coverage). Many of you were here, many more of you read about it in the remarkable media attention this event
captured. As one of the most intact Grand Army of the Republic posts in the country, the Thomas Espy Post is
truly a national treasure. We look forward to completing its historically correct restoration.
Our wonderful facility accommodated a day of programming that offered something for everyone. We
featured keynote speakers in the Music Hall; exhibitors and vendors presented an engaging day long Civil War
exposition in the Reception Hall; members of the Ninth Pennsylvania Reserves gave ongoing tours of the Espy
Post while others were engaged in drills and skirmishes on the grounds. Our new library director used her
expertise to introduce visitors to Civil War and genealogical research. Two re-enactors exchanged legal wedding
vows in an 1862 military style wedding. When rain spoiled plans for an outdoor ceremony, it was no problem to
move the wedding inside. The day ended with the tunes of Stephen Foster and other Civil War era music being
artfully performed with the accompaniment of fiddle, banjo and guitar.
The dream is coming true. We are restoring and revitalizing our historic landmark Andrew Carnegie Free
Library & Music Hall.
Warmly,
Charles R. Goetz William E. Manby Ronald L. Moehler
Campaign Co-Chair Campaign Co-Chair President, ACFL&MH Board of Trustees
ACFL&MH News & Notes
Librarians have been saying for years that public
libraries are a bargain. We now have the numbers to
prove it. According to a
recent study conducted
by the University of
North Carolina’s School
of Information and
Library Science for the
Office of Commonwealth
Libraries, Pennsylvania
libraries provide a return
on investment of $5.50
in benefits for every $1
of tax support. Statewide, taxpayers dedicate $249
million in tax dollars annually to support 630 public
libraries. If those libraries did
not exist, the economic loss
would amount to $1.34 billion.
And this amount does not take
into account the “halo” effect of
library visitors patronizing local
establishments.
“Pennsylvania libraries are
used extensively because the
information and services they
provide are found to be trustworthy, the best source
available to users and convenient or easy to use,” the
study reported. The Andrew Carnegie Free Library
ANDREW CARNEGIE FREE LIBRARY & MUSIC HALL
2006 RECORD OF SERVICES
47,448 items circulated
233 library programs conducted
38,227 visitors welcomed
5,524 reference questions answered
+ 10,000 hours of public computer usage provided
circulated 47,448 items in 2006, conducted 233 library
programs, had 38,227 visitors, answered 5,524 reference
questions, and provided
almost 10,000 hours of
public computer usage.
The library enriches the
lives of its patrons.
Without the library, we’d
have to expend a massive
amount of time and
money to come up with
alternative sources for the
information we need and
the entertainment and enrichment we seek. What this
study solidly demonstrates is that the Andrew Carnegie
Free Library & Music Hall is not a
luxury but a necessity; we are not
superfluous in the age of the
Internet, and that support through
tax dollars and private donations is
a good investment. Just what
librarians have known all along!
To calculate just how much the
library is worth to you, visit
www.carnegiecarnegie.com, click
on Library Links and then Calculate.
Diane Ragan, CG, MLIS
Director
= what ACFL&MH is worth to the community

What’s Happening at the ACFL&MH
Library
Babies ’N Books
Tuesdays, 11:30 A.M.–12:00 noon
Ages birth to 24 months with an adult. It is never too soon to start!
Stories and rhymes help babies develop language skills. Enjoy great
books, hear fun songs and rhymes and meet other families in the
community. Contact: Lisa, 412-276-3456 x2,
rasmussenl@einetwork.net.
Story and Craft Time
Thursdays, 10:30 A.M.
Today, we’ll read some stories and make a craft to help those stories
come alive. Contact: Lisa, 412-276-3456 x2,
rasmussenl@einetwork.net.
Get a Clue @ Andrew Carnegie Free Library
The Summer Reading Program
Tuesdays and Wednesdays, July 10 through August 15, 2007
10:00 A.M.–11:00 A.M.
Write, illustrate and create your own mystery or non-fiction book.
Listen to cool stories. Play fun games and do fun activities. Read great
books and win prizes. You can do all of these things this summer at
the Summer Reading Program here at the Andrew Carnegie Free
Library. On Wednesday July 25, 2007, we’ll have a special
presentation from the Carnegie Science Center. Contact: Lisa,
412-276-3456 x2, rasmussenl@einetwork.net.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Party
Wednesday, July 25, 6:00 P.M.–8:00 P.M.
We’re celebrating the release of the last Harry Potter book! We’ll sort
you into houses to play games. Try some pumpkin juice and Bertie
Botts All Flavors Beans. Make a Harry Potter craft. Contact: Lisa,
412-276-3456 x2, rasmussenl@einetwork.net.
Movies for the Senior Set
Third Wednesday of every month beginning September 19, 2007
2:00 P.M.–3:30 P.M.
Please join us for a free movie sure to appeal to our seniors. A
different new release shown each month. Light snacks and
refreshments served. Free and open to the public. Reservations not
required. Location: Reception Hall. Note: No movie on Wednesday,
November 21, 2007. Contact: Diane 412-276-3456, x5
ragand@einetwork.net.
See “Library”, page 11
Music Hall
Our Annual Benefit Event
Lynne Rossetto Kasper returns!
Lynne Rossetto Kasper on Food
Saturday October 20, 2007, 4:30 PM
The popular host of The Splendid Table
public radio show and author of the indepth
cookbook of the same title will be
back at the Andrew Carnegie Free
Library & Music Hall to kick off our
fund raising event. Location: Music Hall
Brunch & Book Signing with Lynne
Sunday October 21, 2007, 11:00 AM
Location: Reception Hall
For more information about these events, please contact
Maggie Forbes at 412-276-3456, x6.
Company
Stage 62 presents: Company, Music and Lyrics by Stephen
Sondheim, Book by George Furth
July 19, 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, 28, 29, 2007, 8:00 P.M.
The clashing sounds and pulsing rhythms of New York City
underscore this landmark show, considered by many to have
inaugurated the modern era of musical theatre.
Tickets $15; $12 students and seniors. For information call
412-429-6262 or visit www.stage62.com.
Fusion
Evening Performance, Saturday, October 13, 2007, 7:30 P.M.–10:00 P.M.
A Day of Excitement—Fusion—is an all day event of bellydance
workshops and an evening performance starring: PurpleMatilda, Unmata
& Zafira Dance Company along with various local dance performers
sharing an array of dance styles such as Belly Dance, Flamenco, Acro-
Contortion Dance, Hip Hop, Modern Jazz/Ballet, Lyrical, etc.
Tickets: $12.00 advance tickets/$15.00 at door (evening show). For more
information on the workshop descriptions and fees please visit
www.yogaandbellydance.com (Early Bird Registration ends September 15,
2007) or contact purplematilda@yahoo.com, (412) 260-0533.
62 Days of Christmas
Wednesday, October 24, 2007, 7:30 P.M.
Reception Hall
Join Stage 62 for a party celebrating the release of its first ever CD!
The eponymously titled CD, 62 Days of Christmas, is a collection of
classic and contemporary holiday favorites recorded by Stage 62
performers in the fabulous acoustics of the Music Hall. Get an early
jump on the holiday mood with refreshments, CD sales, and
performances of the songs.
Fiddler on the Roof
Stage 62 presents Fiddler on the Roof.
November 2–4, 9–11, 16–18 2007
Friday-Saturday 8:00 P.M., Sunday 2:00 P.M.
This well known Broadway musical is based on the book by Joseph
Stein, with music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick. The
play is set in the small Jewish shtetl (town) of Anatevka in Tsarist
Russia in 1905. The story centers on Tevye, the father of five strong-
See “Music Hall”, page 11
3

A Day for Celebration and Remembrance
Our Civil War Exposition 2007
Re-enactors, Speakers, a Wedding and a Concert—What a Day!
The Andrew Carnegie Free Library’s
annual Civil War program took place on
April 28 and was a success by every measure.
The rich roster of programming included:
• ongoing tours of the Espy Post
• a Civil War exposition featuring a variety
of exhibitors and vendors in the
Reception Hall;
• keynote speaker Rick Sayre who spoke
on both the Grand Army of the Republic
and on Soldiers Homes;
• encampment, drills and skirmishes on
the grounds;
Members of the 9th Pennsylvania line up for
inspection prior to maneuvers.
• introduction of the Kathleen Bowman
Eynon Memorial Civil War Collection,
offering one-on-one orientations on Civil
War and genealogical research with
library director Diane Ragan; and
• a crowd-pleasing evening performance by
Home Front and Acoustic Shadows of the
Blue and Gray in the Music Hall.
The bride and groom walk under the crossed sabers of
their regiment as they leave the Music Hall.
However, the unequivocal high point of
the programming, which drew unprecedented
media attention, was the wedding of two reenactors,
conducted in carefully researched
1862 military style. Members of the 9th
Pennsylvania Reserves Joanne Shelby and
Michael Klein were legally married in a
ceremony presided over by John Leggett, a
fellow re-enactor and Episcopal priest. More
than 200 “witnesses” attended the ceremony.
Up until the last minute the bride and
groom planned for the wedding to be held on
the grounds. However, the rain that had
soaked re-enactors all day grew heavier as the
4:30 wedding approached.
“I know Joanne and Michael wanted to be
married outdoors, but the Music Hall was
not only drier, but allowed all our patrons to
both see and hear this beautiful ceremony,”
said executive director Maggie Forbes. “We
were honored that Joanne and Michael
planned their wedding as part of our
programming. Though we’re not sure what
we’ll do to top this next year!”
Undaunted, the ACFL&MH has already
reserved the weekend of April 25-27 for the
2008 event. Library staff and board are
committed to Civil War programming as an
increasingly anticipated annual event,
complete with field trips from Carnegie and
Crafton Elementary Schools (fifth and sixth
graders visited on April 20). The ACFL&MH
extends heartfelt appreciation to the 9th
Pennsylvania Reserves for all its contributions
to the day’s programming and for its ongoing
stewardship of the Thomas Espy Post of the
Grand Army of the Republic.
Specializing in Civil War-era music, Home Front
performs with guitar, fiddle and vocals.
One of Our Unsung Treasures, the Thomas Espy Post
A Generous Gift From Masonic Lodge
The Lafayette Lodge #652 of the Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania (which recently celebrated its
100th Anniversary), made a very generous $1,000 donation. The ACFL&MH used this gift to restore the
original charter of the Espy Post. Shown left to right, Bob Fark, Fred Hodge, Tom O'Shea, Maggie Forbes,
Bob Amend, Jim White and Marty Neaman.
Board, Staff Committed
to the Collection
As part of it improvements to
patron services, the board and staff
have committed to developing an
outstanding public library Civil War
collection. “It only makes sense with
the Thomas Espy Post upstairs, that
we complement this national treasure
with strong holdings to support or
pique patrons’ interest in the Civil
War,” says library director Diane
Ragan. The entire Kathleen Bowman
Eynon Memorial Civil War
Collection—reference, non-fiction,
biography—is all being housed
together in one section of the reference
room.
4

Oh, the Places We’ve Been!
With each step of the way we’ve gained new audiences—and hosted
new events!
In March, Carnegie-Mellon exchange
students from Qatar volunteered for a
workday and, here, present executive
director Maggie Forbes with a copy of
the Koran for the Library.
In May, Southwest Ballet School performed an innovative program of new and
old—five short modern pieces chreographed by teachers at the school followed by
a very traditional “12 Dancing Princesses.”
Also in March,
Jennifer Ross of the
Pittsburgh
Symphony
Orchestra visited to
help in “Unlocking
the Classics.”
In May, “Women in Politics” was the
topic for a talk by Amie Downs, chief
of staff for PA state senator Wayne
Fontana.
In March, master
gardener Dana
Vingin gave a talk
on starting plants
from seeds at home,
and discussed
general tips about
gardening.
We’ve become the “home away from
home” for Duquesne University’s
Opera Workshop as they
performed a fully-staged
production of Mozart’s Le Nozze
de Figaro, accompanied by the
Duquesne University Orchestra;
they also perform our annual
Christmas program.
On the Summer Solstice, local
pianist and traditional singer
Ellen Gozion brought us “Across
the Blue Mountain”, a program
of folk songs from America and
the British Isles sung a capella
or accompanied by fiddle and
guitar.
In June, European basso Vitaliy
Lomakin performed “Arias and
Songs”, a variety of traditional
and modern operatic selections
followed by a set of folk songs
from his native Ukraine and
from Eastern Europe.
In February, local poet and artist
Bernadette Kazmarski brought us
“Paths I Have Walked”, a poetry
reading and a show of her art and
poetry depicting and inspired by
local trails and natural areas.
Library Gets Facelift
The Library has a whole new look, feel and sound! A generous
friend of the “Carnegie Carnegie” made a donation designated for
new carpeting. “There was nothing charming or worth preserving
about the Library’s dingy, crumbling 106-year-old linoleum,” says
executive director Maggie Forbes. The new carpet is an interim step
until the full restoration of the Library interior. “What a boost to get
us from here to there,” enthuses library director Diane Ragan. The
carpet looks clean, expansive, and draws attention to the Library’s
beautiful architectural features. As a bonus, the carpet has a calming
acoustical impact. Be sure to wipe your feet before entering!
Let’s hope this is our last look at the old linoleum!
5

And Look Wher
If you’ve been wondering what was
A Lovely Library
With the Andrew Carnegie Free Library &
Music Hall accessible, structurally intact and
weatherproof, the design team (The Design
Alliance, Landau Building Company,
ACFL&MH staff and board) is moving
forward with plans for interior improvements.
The historic character of the Library is
sacrosanct. Emphasis is on restoring and
highlighting the Library’s architectural
strengths while adding long overdue
amenities and technological upgrades.
“We want the Library to
become patrons’ ‘third
place’,” says library
director Diane Ragan,
referring to the ACFL’s
being a pivotal place—after
home and work or
school—where the
community regularly
comes.
Painting, plaster restoration and new
flooring will address years of water damage
and lack of upkeep. The impact of the
recently installed “interim” carpet gives a hint
of what a dramatic difference these cosmetic
improvements will make.
Good lighting is critical to good patron
services. The ACFL is graced with enviable
natural light streaming through its lovely
arched windows. Unfortunately, as those who
frequent the Library in the evening or on
dark winter afternoons know, the ACFL’s
electrical lighting falls far short of adequate.
Plans are to add indirect cove lighting that
will be placed along the ceiling’s plaster beams
to illuminate the overall space. The indirect
lighting will be augmented with pendant
lights carefully selected to be in keeping with
the ACFL’s historic character, as well as floor
or table lamps that create inviting reading or
work areas.
The beloved circulation desk will be
refurbished and “unwrapped” to create better
traffic patterns and to afford staff sight lines to
both the front entrance and to the elevator
lobby. The messy and hazardous warren of
light, phone and computer wires will be
appropriately channeled and concealed.
Moving the barrier created by the “circ”
desk will make the ACFL’s handsome
fireplace and mantel the Library’s focal point.
Plans call for comfortable, living room style
seating in front of the fireplace. “We want the
Library to become patrons’ ‘third place’,” says
library director Diane Ragan, referring to the
ACFL’s being a pivotal place—after home and
work or school—where the community
regularly comes.
Repositioning the circulation desk also
opens space for low cases featuring best
sellers, new arrivals and books that
complement special or seasonal
programming. New, ergonomically correct
computer tables and chairs will make using
the ACFL’s increasingly popular computers
more comfortable.
Perhaps the biggest change in patron services
is converting what is now the library director’s
office into public space. This office has three of
the ACFL’s signature windows, and connects
through a passage to the Children’s Room. It is
beautiful public space that can be scheduled for
a wide variety of small group programs ranging
from story hours, allowing pre-schoolers to
gently separate from their parents or caregivers,
to after-school programming, adult reading
groups or quiet study.
As with the Music Hall, the Library’s exterior
doors will be replaced with doors with glass
panels. This will offer inviting views of the
Library’s interior (yes, we are open!), while
eliminating the not uncommon occurrence of
exiting visitors blindly barging into entering
visitors.
With the restoration complete, executive
director Maggie Forbes believes that “if you close
your eyes and picture a beautiful library, chances
are you will conjure up us!”
6

e We’re Going!
next on the list, here’s your answer.
Music Hall Lobby Restoration Begins in August
Work begins in August to restore the
Music Hall’s entryway and lobby into a
welcoming and gracious space through a
Pennsylvania Historical and Museum
Commission grant the ACFL&MH received
for this purpose.
The Design Alliance, project architect, has
set out to create a classic, understated
elegance in the Music Hall lobby by
brightening the overall space and highlighting
the beautiful architectural details that are
already present in the space.
Instead of the solid, somewhat
forbidding wooden doors now guarding the
Hall’s entrance new exterior doors modeled
on the original doors will feature glass
panels that offer a glimpse of elegance and
activity within, transforming the ambiance
of the Music Hall. A welcoming glow will
be visible from the foot of the
ACFL&MH’s hill.
Restoring water damaged plaster, along
with appropriate painting and lighting
applications, will have a major impact. The
addition of strategically placed hidden cove
lighting above doorways, windows, and below
the stairs will give a subtle overall dimension
and warmth to the space. Existing pillars,
paneled doors and moldings will be painted a
bright off-white. Crown moldings on the
columns and the egg and dart molding that
surrounds the lobby will be painted an accent
color with an understated bronze glaze,
accentuating the carvings in these moldings
with a warming luster.
…create a classic,
understated elegance in
the Music Hall lobby by
brightening the overall
space and highlighting the
beautiful architectural
details that are already
present in the space.
The Music Hall’s lobby is framed with
ceremonial switchback stairs—certainly the
lobby’s most striking feature. Once again, a
bronze glaze will highlight the stairways’ lovely
architectural detailing. The ridge on the
underside of the stairways will be illuminated
on either side by tiny lights. The whole lobby
will have an elegant, burnished effect.
“The Music Hall won’t look boarded up
any more—people will know they’ve come to
the right place,” comments executive director
Maggie Forbes about the new doors. “The
lobby is the audience’s first impression as well
a place for important social interaction during
intermission.”
The Music Hall lobby is not large, but the
renovation will add a box office to the back of
the theater (for years the lobby has been
cramped with tables and counters to provide
front of house services). The old restroom off
the lobby will be converted into a wellequipped
concession stand.
The restoration will be complete in time
for the first fall performance, our Lynne
Rossetto Kasper benefit.
For More Information
For more information on the Andrew
Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall
Campaign, contact Maggie Forbes, Executive
Director and Campaign Manager at
(412) 276-3456, ext. 6.
7

Before and After
New and renewed features inside and out welcome patrons of the
Library & Music Hall.
It’s been “pardon our dust” for the past three years. Library patrons, Music Hall audiences, resident companies and staff have been
remarkably patient throughout the construction that began in November 2004.
And the contractors have been equally accommodating, staging and scheduling the construction so that Library & Music Hall
operations continued uninterrupted if not exactly unimpeded.
The high point of the restoration process thus far—literally and figuratively—was when the building was swathed in scaffolding for
work on the roof, gutters, eaves, cornices and masonry. What an exciting signal of progress and work underway!
8
Patrons continued to use the reference room despite windows
being removed and boarded up, and tables and books covered
with drop cloths.
The former Lecture Hall had a brown and green asbestos-ridden
floor, egg carton fluorescent light fixtures, windows that didn’t
open or slammed shut with guillotine force. It was a long climb
up the spiral staircase, and its toilets worked sporadically.
The Library & Music Hall’s roof, masonry and trim were
painstakingly restored according to guidelines required for a
building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The
ACFL&MH was wrapped in scaffolding, one section at a time,
for much of 2006.
The construction low point
was when windows were
boarded up last September
through December, making the
Library darker in a darkening
time of year. “It looked more
like blight than beautification,”
complained executive director
Maggie Forbes.
C
But the plywood came
down in time for Christmas.
Every window had been
removed, its woodwork
restored, the old single-pane
glass replaced with a sealed
double-pane unit. The new
thermal windows no longer
rattle and shake, but keep the
howling wind outside. The
windows will be painted and
caulked later this summer.
C
Improvements to the
ACFL&MH facility have
inspired new programming,
services and awareness of and
pride in the Library & Music
Hall. The elevator and
upgrades to the Reception
Hall keep it in constant use
with programs ranging from
seniors’ movies to a birthday
party for Dr. Seuss to
discussions on women in
politics. It’s been rented out
for private parties including
bridal showers, financial
seminars and events for other
non-profit organizations.
C
New work begins in August
with the restoration of the
Music Hall lobby. Funds are
still being raised for the much
anticipated upgrades to the
Library and Music Hall
auditorium.
Restored, signature windows create a beautiful reading room,
shown here with library director Diane Ragan, dressed for
April’s Civil War Exposition, instructing a patron on
genealogical research.
The Reception Hall boasts a new coat of paint, glowing antique
light fixtures (found in the basement and restored), an attractive
new floor, plus a well-equipped kitchen, an accessible restroom,
and access via elevator. Also new—the crowd of people!
The restored exterior gleams in the late afternoon sun.
Construction both visible and behind the scenes, up in the air
and underground made the Library & Music Hall dry and
structurally sound for its second century of service.

Betsy Martin Completes Tenure
After 22 years Betsy Bell Martin ended her
tenure as a member of the board of trustees in
March. Many would agree that Betsy did
more than any other single individual to keep
the Library doors open for the many years
that financial hardship made the Library’s
continued operations far from a certainty.
Betsy isn’t one of them. She asserts that
many board members past and present were
joined by devoted community members who
“worked tirelessly to keep the Library viable,
waiting for a miracle to occur.”
“It did!” notes Betsy as she officially
stepped down. “Thanks to the intervention
and support of the Chartiers Valley
Partnership and the architects and fund
raisers it hired, plus a re-invigorated staff, the
community is coming to appreciate what a
gem and magnet we have in our midst.”
“I have always believed that the Andrew
Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall is
Carnegie’s greatest asset, not only for its
historical and architectural significance, but
more importantly as a learning and cultural
center for the entire Chartiers Valley.”
Board Welcomes Three New Members
The Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall is pleased to announce that three new
members have been elected to serve on its Board of Trustees.
Jacie Bejster, Principal of Crafton Elementary School, Chris Brussalis, President and CEO
of The Hill Group, Inc., a national management consulting firm, and Gary Frantz, a financial
advisor and Partner at Brand, Burstin & Runnette were welcomed to the ACFL&MH board at
its April meeting.
“We’re delighted to have people of this caliber on the Board,” says president Ron Moehler.
“We’re in the midst of an ambitious capital campaign to restore the building, and we are
working hard to improve and upgrade services and programming at the same time. Leadership
from the Board is critical.”
The board and staff extend heartfelt appreciation to outgoing board members Elaine Geiser,
Betsy Bell Martin and Marjorie O’Brien for their service to the Library & Music Hall.
Visit Our Website
The official website of the ACFL&MH
is www.carnegiecarnegie.com
Visit our website and keep in touch!
Find the latest news plus performance
times and schedules for upcoming events
at both the Library & Music Hall, reviews
and photos of past events, and updates on
our campaign.
Bring Back the Beacon
The new entrance doors to the Library will be named
in honor of Betsy Martin “who worked tirelessly to
keep the Library doors open.”
Kasper event, from page 1
“What a treat it will be to come back to greet
old members and new. Pittsburgh hospitality
has never been surpassed, and I cannot wait.
See you all in October, and until then have a
fine summer.”
Stay tuned to www.carnegiecarnegie.com
or call 412/276-3456, x. 6 for more
information about the Lynne Rossetto Kasper
event.
You can help bring back Carnegie’s crown jewel and community beacon. Support the Andrew
Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall Campaign.
Send your tax deductible contributions made payable to The Chartiers Valley Partnership, c/o The
Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Avenue, Carnegie, PA 15106.
Betsy joined the board of trustees in 1985,
and worked tenaciously to keep the Library
going through years of extreme poverty.
Those were difficult times.
Betsy was educated at Wellesley College
and received a degree in architecture at
Carnegie Tech. She will continue to serve on
the committee supervising the restoration of
the ACFL&MH’s historic landmark facility.
“Betsy was a tough act to follow,” says
Ron Moehler, who took over as president of
the board when Betsy’s term in that office was
finished. “Her dedication is an inspiration to
all of us who care about the Library & Music
Hall. We’re delighted she’s staying involved.”
More than 50 people attended a reception
in Betsy’s honor on May 31.
Always one to speak her mind, Betsy
noted, “My fondest hope for its future is that
the Library will be adequately funded by the
Borough, or all that has been accomplished
will have been for naught.”
In honor of her dedication to the Library’s
doors staying open, the new front doors of
the Library will be named in her honor.
Surge in Programming, from page 1
Programming at the Library is keeping
pace with Music Hall performances. Library
director Diane Ragan is committed to
offering more regularly scheduled
programming such as monthly senior movies
as well as special one-of-a-kind programs.
“We want the Library to be a gathering and
meeting place, for the exchange of
information and ideas. We also want to give
people a reason to come to the Library now,”
Ragan explains.
2007 programming thus far included a
poetry reading and art exhibition; The Genesis
of the African Soul, a presentation from the
Senator John Heinz Regional History Center;
a presentation on growing plants from seed;
“Unlocking the Classics,” an outreach
program from the Pittsburgh Symphony; and
a presentation on women in politics
scheduled just before the May primary.
Programming can be self-generating. For
example, a woman who came to the poetry
reading inquired about doing the program on
planting from seed. “That’s the kind of
serendipity that we like,” says Ragan.
Traditional Library use, as reflected by
circulation is climbing as well. 2006
circulation was 7% higher than 2005’s,
despite the sometimes inconvenience of
construction. Visits to the ACFL&MH’s
website www.carnegiecarnegie.com have
surged from 31,000 in 2003 to being on
track for 120,000 in 2007.
9

Campaign Contributors
The Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall gratefully acknowledges the following individuals, businesses,
organizations and foundations that have generously supported the campaign to restore, renovate and revitalize our historic
landmark facilility. The following list reflects gifts to the capital campaign given since our December 2006 newsletter.
Anonymous
Joan & Edward Adams
Allegheny Foundation
Bob & Janice Amend
Donald & Rebecca Anderson
Alfred Annesi
Bayer Foundation
Beaconsfield Financial Services
Diane M. Beley
Frederick Bigham
Robert & Helen Boyda
Judge & Mrs. John G. Brosky
Roger & Lea Brown
Kaitlin & Brandan Cantley
Frank & Grace Caputo
Walter P. Chapman, Jr.
Betty M. Chidlow
Grace Compton
Joseph & Jeanne Conrad
William H. Corba
Joyce E. Costa
Dr. Samuel Cross, Jr.
Nellie Docherty
Robert & Laura Donaldson
Eden Hall Foundation
Bill & Darlene English
Jeffrey L. Eppinger &
Francesmary Modugno
Paul Fennell
Richard E. Ferri
Nina Baldwin Fisher Foundation
Margaret J. Forbes
Isabel Ford
Sarah Ford
Ted & Barbara Frantz
Leonard & Mildred Gerlowksi
Gordon Terminal Services
Company
Timothy & Jennifer Gordon
Bob & Shirley Gordon
Eugenia Graser
Vincent and Mary Grogan
Metro Haritan, Jr.
George K. Haudenshield, DDS
Clara Herron
Hillman Company
Jeffrey & Patricia Hinds
George & Angela Honchar
Robert & Justine Hudson
Informing Design, Inc.
Fred A. Jackson
Mary Jeffries
Patricia Prattis Jennings &
Charles Johnson
Thelma Double Johnson
Dennis R. Joyce
John & Jeane Kish
James W. Knepper
Edward Kocher
Robert R. Kollar, Jr.
Carol Krasneski
Michael & Rose Kutsenkow
Lafayette Lodge # 652, Carnegie
Masons
Louise Lamar-Fuller
Florence Lasota
Laurel Foundation
Barbara Leary
Jeffrey Lemley
Mary Perez Lopez
Stanley Lore
Daniel & Claudia Losego
Jean I. Magazzu
Jim & Ollie Maloney
Bill & Georgia Manby
Elizabeth Bell Martin
Nancy Mattessi
Patrick & Julia McCaffrey
Joanne McGarry
Edward J. McLean
Helen M. McNamara
Betty Lou Millikin
Ron & Diane Moehler
Richard & Rosemary Murray
Estelle Musico
Homer & Virginia Nixon
Patrick O’Donnell
Paddy’s Pour House
Ron Parker
Jim and Patty Pascoe
Lynn Pascoe & John Heiner
Eleanor Patross
PC Guage Repair Co.
Pennsylvania American Water
Charles & Percy Percy
PermaGreen Lawn Co.
Leslie Petrone
Bob & Carol Pfaff
Pfizer Foundation
PNC Foundation, “Growing Up
Great”
PPG Industries Foundation
Martin & Deborah Powell
Chuck Prine
Malcolm Prine
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Queenan,
Jr.
E.D. Radasky, M.D.
David L. Randour
Margaret Reed
Robert & Bonnie Reynolds
Andrew & Heather Roman
Rotary Club of Carnegie
Leo Russell
Mary Agnes Sanker
Richard & Nancy Santucci
Dolores Saporito
Larry & Janet Sargert
Anthony W. Saveikis
Dominic & Mary Schepis
Lawrence G. & Barbara J.
Schnurr
Gretchen Schulert
William & Betty Scott
Kathleen & Roger Sembrat
Dr. John & Josephine Shively
D. Mark Smith
Alice & Donald Smith
Yolanda J. Smola
Mr. & Mrs. David J. Spinda
Mr. and Mrs. James C. Stalder
Louise Stewart
Perry & Marcia Swanson
Stella & Ken Szanfranski
The Hon. & Mrs. Patrick R.
Tamilia
Paul E. Thomas
Leonard Tiberio
Thomas & Kathryn Trebilcock
Paul Trimmer
Union Electric Steel Corporation
Joanne Vandenhengel
Verizon
Glenn A. Walsh
David M. Williamson
Arba Williamson, Jr.
Clyde & Carmie Wood
Gregory & Rosemary Zbezinski
Zuks Autobody
List complete through July 1, 2007.
We apologize for any errors or
omissions.
10

Honorary and Memorial Contributions
The Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall gratefully acknowledges the following honorary and memorial contributions, which help support the
campaign to restore, revitalize and renovate the historic facility.
IN HONOR OF
Betsy Bell Martin
Anonymous
Rosanna & Ed Bogats
Wanda Clay
Polly and Frank Coyle
Helene & Bruce DalCanton
Bill & Darlene English
Dorothy Florence
Margaret J. Forbes
Isabel Ford
Ted & Barbara Frantz
Terri Gould & John Hamm
Christopher & Kathleen Green
Marjorie Greenberger
Ann Huddart
Patricia Prattis Jennings & Charles Johnson
Dorothy Kelly
John & Jeane Kish
Michael & Rose Kutsenkow
Landau Building Company
Lorraine Laux
Mary Ellen Leigh
Bill & Georgia Manby
Derek Martin, Jr.
Kathleen & Peter Martin
MaryAnn & Andy Martin
Joanne McGarry
Marcella McGrogan
Pearl McNall, M.D.
Ron Moehler
Bob & Valery Moll
Bernard & Nancy Newman, Jr.
Ronald Lee Parker, Jr.
Lynn Pascoe & John Heiner
Patricia Prattis Jennings & Charles Johnston
Martin & Deborah Powell
Diane Ragan
Kathleen & Roger Sembrat
Janet Sharp
Dick & Ginny Thornburgh
IN MEMORY OF
William W. Beck
Bill & Georgia Manby
Kevin Manning
Fred & Linda Majewicz
Clarence “Bud” Nixon
Anonymous
Anonymous
Patricia Burns
Cozen Family
Bunny & Ellen Davis
H. Kurt Heinz Family
James & Nancy Johnson
Carol Heinz Kirwin Family
Dave & Canan Kuhn
Michael & Rose Kutsenkow
Anne, Ben & Andy Lewis
Ron & Nancy Lorenzato
Tom and Ming Medwig
Lois Nixon
Homer & Virginia Nixon
Theresa Oranges
Donald H. Remy
Donald C. Peterson
Milan & Sylvia Spanovich
Helen Shick
Diane Bailey
Ned Chase
Peggy Chase
Alton Chase & Family
Florence Clancy
Barbara Cooper
Ann O. Huddart
Rae L. Lindell & Family
Susan Ludwick & Family
Elizabeth Bell Martin
Perry & Marcia Swanson
Lou Stafford
Bill & Georgia Manby
Louis F. Valentour
Bill & Darlene English
Sidney J. Wood
Ruth and Peggy Rutkauskas
The ACFL appreciates memorial donations made
to purchase books. These gifts are listed on the
Library website: www.carnegiecarnegie.com.
Music Hall, from page 3
willed daughters, and his attempts to maintain his family and religious
traditions while the world around the shtetl changes rapidly. Tickets
$15; $12 students and seniors. For information call 412/429-6262 or
visit www.stage62.com.
The Nutcracker
November 30, December 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 2007
Friday-Saturday 8:00 P.M., Sunday 2:00 P.M.
An old-fashioned holiday tradition. Christmas time brings the magical
dream of a little girl named Clara and her handsome Nutcracker
Prince. Battling an evil Rat King and sledding through swirling
snowflakes are just a few of the adventures leading them to their
Candy Kingdom. Join Clara and her Prince in the Holiday event of
the Season. For more information contact the Carnegie Performing Arts
Center, 412-279-8887 or visit www.cpac.homestead.com. Tickets are
$12 at the door for Adults, $8.00 for Seniors and Children.
Christmas in Vienna
Sunday, December 16, 2007, 2:00 P.M.
Students from Duquesne University’s Mary Pappert School of Music
return to provide an afternoon of musical holiday enchantment. Join
us for this new family tradition that is free and open to the public.
The concert will be followed by wassail, coffee and cookies in the
Reception Hall.
Library, from page 3
Happy Birthday Mr. Carnegie!
Thursday, November 15, 2007, 7:00 PM
The Andrew Carnegie Free Library & Music Hall will hold a
performance marking the 172nd birthday of philanthropist Andrew
Carnegie. Join us for an evening of Scottish poetry and bagpipes! Free
and open to the public. For more information call 412-276-3456, x2.
We Need Your Stories!
If you have a good story to tell about the Library & Music Hall,
please contact us and send us your story and a photo if possible.
Include your address and we’ll return the photo to you.
For details, call (412) 276-3456 or visit us 300 Beechwood
Avenue, Carnegie, PA 15106.
11

Andrew Carnegie Free Library &
Music Hall Campaign
300 Beechwood Avenue
Carnegie, PA 15106
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
CARNEGIE, PA 15106
PERMIT NO. 639
Recyle at the Carnegie Carnegie Now!
Bring your paper products (magazines, newspapers, catalogs, mail, copy paper, colored
paper, notebooks, folders, books—hard covers removed), and drop them off in the Abitibi bin
behind the Music Hall. Not only are you doing your part
for the environment, but the ACFL&MH actually receives
small compensation by the ton.
Unacceptable items include phone books, cereal boxes,
food and milk cartons, cardboard, glass, trash, metals and
plastics.
One ton of recycled paper saves 3.3 cubic yards of
landfill space or 4100 kw hours of electricity (enough to
heat a home for 6 months or run a television for 41
hours)!
Great Giving Opportunity
For those of you age 70.5 and older, the Pension Protection Act of 2006 provides a timelimited
opportunity to help the campaign to restore the Library & Music Hall.
“Homesick for Carnegie”
Gift Package!
Send a friend gifts they can wear
proudly in any other city in the United
States, or even across the globe! The
distinctive and colorful “Carnegie
Carnegie” logo appears on:
• t-shirts
• baseball caps
• commemorative canapé trays
• and our newest addition to the
collection—white canvas tote bags
For information, call (412) 276-3456
or visit www.carnegiecarnegie.com.
• Through December 31, 2007 donors may rollover up to $100,000 from an IRA to the
campaign without recognizing the assets transferred to as income.
• This contribution will count towards your IRA’s minimum distribution requirements.
• Because this contribution counts neither towards gross income nor as a tax deduction, even
non-itemizers may benefit from the Pension Protection Act.
• Your contribution must be transferred directly from an IRA administrator to a charity.
We recommend that you consult your tax and/or legal counsel to decide on a course of
action, or call Maggie Forbes at 412/276-3456, ext. 6 with any general questions about a gift
to the campaign.