Carnegie Library is an interesting model. It's a historic library opened by the Carnegie family in 1902 (it was dedicated in 1903). During a time when most places in D.C. were segregated, this public library was for everyone. The architecture is gorgeous and there's plenty of space to read and relax. However, it closed in the 1970s.
After a few decades closed, it reopened with the DC Historical Society inside. It housed the Society and was used for events for awhile. However, the upkeep was too much.
In May 2019, the library reopened with the help of Apple. Spending an alleged $33M, Apple restored it using its original floor design. They have, of course, retail inside, but the majority of the space is used for the community. Apple has daily free classes on design, coding, and photography. They have a program to teach kids to code through dancing robots and teachers how to use tech in the classroom. There's a space for entrepreneurs to help them grow their businesses.
The basement has an exhibit that tells the story of the actual building. Upstairs is where the DC Historical Society still is and Apple helped them build a research library with 100,000+ cataloged photographs, thousands of books and maps as well. They have two galleries telling the history of DC. There's also a Shop Made In DC selling local items from cards to coasters to snacks.
Regardless of your stance on big business, it's worth visiting to see a beautiful, historic building and a new model of preserving spaces. read more