Built in 1916, this was one of the approximately 100 Carnegie libraries constructed in Iowa between 1892 and 1917. Reflecting the classical revival style with star-patterned windows, it served as the Greenfield Public Library until the mid-1990s. It is a contributing property to the Greenfield Public Square Historic District placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014.
After the public library vacated the building, the Carnegie Task Force was organized in order to pursue ways to preserve and reuse the old library. The group developed a plan to promote the building, obtained bids for needed repairs, and proposed a protective covenant adopted by city council. The property was also designated an Iowa Most Endangered Property in 1999.
Through the collaborative efforts of the task force, city council, and Greenfield Chamber/Main Street, the building was sold and The Old Carnegie Gift Shop operated in the structure from 2000 to 2004. The City regained ownership in 2004 and it remained empty until 2010 when the Greenfield Chamber/Main Street (GCMS) organization and Greenfield Municipal Utilities renovated the lower level into offices. In March 2020 storm water flooded the lower level forcing the building to be vacated once again.
The building remains empty to date. Finding a new owner and use has support from the Greenfield City Council, GCMS, and Municipal Utilities but difficulties remain. Repairs are needed to the roof, windows, exterior brickwork, and interior plaster and a lack of accessibility to the main level is another obstacle to its reuse. Some interest has been shown by a local actor in repurposing the structure for housing but nothing is yet in development.
