As South Ayrshire Council’s central library, Carnegie Library in Ayr’s Main Street is far more than a place to borrow books. Home to the Local History Collection, the Heritage Hall, a Sustainability Hub and a vibrant programme of weekly activities, Carnegie is a hub of learning, discovery and community life. With its beautiful architecture and wealth of resources, this inspiring space attracts visitors from far and wide. If you haven’t stepped through its doors recently, prepare to be pleasantly surprised at everything on offer. This autumn, be sure to reconnect with Carnegie.
Standing proudly on Ayr’s Main Street since 1893, Carnegie Library is one of the town’s most striking landmarks. Built in distinctive red sandstone and named after its chief benefactor, Scottish American steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, the library was designed in late Victorian Renaissance style by architects Campbell Douglas and Morrison of Glasgow.
Visitors are welcomed through a stunning stone entrance into the Heritage Hall which showcases a fascinating selection of objects from the South Ayrshire Council Collection. Half way up the grand staircase is a magnificent stained glass window depicting The Spirit of Literature, the crest of Ayr, portraits of Andrew Carnegie and his wife, and scenes celebrating traditional trades and industries.
Anyone who lives, works or studies within South Ayrshire can enjoy free membership of the council’s full library service, including Carnegie, opening the door to a wealth of resources, activities and opportunities.
If you’re looking for your next great read, wanting to learn a new skill or are keen to delve deeper into a particular subject, discover over 38,000 titles on our shelves. Members can borrow up to 10 books at a time for four weeks, completely free of charge.
From bestselling fiction to practical guides and digital resources, Carnegie’s book lending service offers countless ways to enjoy the world of books, whether you prefer turning pages, listening on the go or downloading the latest bestseller to your device:
From first stories to teenage page-turners, Carnegie offers a welcoming space for young imaginations to grow, as well as opportunities for learning and creating:
SAC Libraries can save you money!
Your membership gives you access to Pressreader and Libby, with free digital newspapers, magazines, ebooks, and audiobooks! From motorbike magazines to comics, the Ayr Advertiser to The New York Times, you will be amazed by your library membership!
Looking to uncover the story of your family, home, community or local area? Carnegie’s Local History Department covering all of South Ayrshire is a treasure trove of resources for researchers, history enthusiasts and the simply curious.
The Local History Department is open by appointment on Tuesdays from 5-7pm and Thursdays from 2-5pm. Please phone or drop into Carnegie to arrange a visit.
Resources include:
Thinking about learning a new language or brushing up on existing skills? Carnegie offers a friendly and relaxed environment where you can build confidence and practise speaking with others:
Looking to try something new, develop a hobby or meet people who share your interests? Carnegie hosts a variety of groups and activities designed to help you learn new skills, share ideas and enjoy the company of like-minded people in a friendly and welcoming environment.
And if the great outdoors is your thing, the lending service has Ordinance Survey Maps covering the whole of Scotland available to borrow.
Our digital services help you get online and make the most of technology. Friendly support is available for those who need a helping hand in all South Ayrshire branches, whether you need to print an important document, learn a new digital skill or get online with confidence.
Services include:
The Sustainability Hub is all about sharing skills, reducing waste and helping people make the most of what they already have. It offers a welcoming community space where people can repair, reuse, share and create – helping you to save money and take small steps towards a sustainable future.
Whether you’re a seasoned maker or trying something new, there’s plenty of support available:
To join your local library either visit in person or join online at South Ayrshire Libraries.
To find out about events at all 12 South Ayrshire libraries, go to What’s on in libraries.
Carnegie Library
12 Main Street, Ayr KA8 8EB
Tel. 01292 286 385
Email [email protected]
Opening Hours
Monday/Wednesday/Friday/Saturday 9am – 5pm
Tuesday 9am – 7pm
Thursday 10am – 7pm
Sunday Closed
Copyright © 2026 Destination South Ayrshire. Provided by South Ayrshire Council.
