The Carnegie Creativity Center
of Alameda
Honoring the past, creating an equitable future.
The historic Alameda Carnegie Library has stood at the heart of our city for over a century, yet it has been empty for more than 20 years. We’re exploring a vision to reopen it as a vibrant arts hub for creativity, connection, and community.
Our Vision
The Carnegie Creativity Center of Alameda’s mission is to foster equitable and inclusive access to the arts through accessible programs, collaborative workspaces, and cultural events. The organization will host programs and initiatives focusing on visual arts, performing arts, culinary arts, and cultural arts. This multi-use space will empower people of all backgrounds to create, learn, and share their stories — strengthening social bonds, supporting mental well-being, and celebrating the diverse creative spirit of Alameda.
Visual Arts
A robust visual arts program, including local art gallery, artist in residence, and art workshops
Community
A gathering space for connection and belonging, enriched by regular community events and an inclusive community arts program
Partnership
Building partnerships with art organizations across Alameda, creating a strong coalition for city wide arts advocacy and communication
Alameda City Arts Coalition
The City of Alameda is home to a vibrant ecosystem of arts organizations, yet many face ongoing challenges related to marketing, funding, and municipal support. The Alameda City Arts Coalition seeks to unite these organizations to strengthen communication, increase advocacy, and facilitate the sharing of resources and information. Our mission is to foster a thriving arts community in Alameda by elevating, supporting, and amplifying the valuable work already being done across the city.
Community Feedback
From a poll, here is what Alameda residents want to see in the Carnegie Creativity Center
Community Events: 83%
Art Classes and Workshops: 75%
Local Art Gallery and Exhibitions: 73%
Public Lectures and Roundtables: 65%
Adult Classes and Programs: 65%
Youth Classes and Programs: 61%
Cafe or Social Gathering Space: 60%
Event Rental Hall: 58%
Community Resource Center: 55%
Artist Halloran Parry
"When I first started seriously pursuing painting, my biggest challenge was space. I wasn't in a position to rent an artist studio so I took a bunch of paint'n'sip classes just so I had a place to paint. There's a need for a good community craft space on the island, particularly for people under 21. Art needs space and community to thrive, and this community center would provide both. The pandemic forced us all into isolation in our homes and our social lives never really recovered. The creative center would give people a reason to show up and meet their neighbors. I hope I get to see it happen."
Alameda Violin
“Many classical music teachers in Alameda run very small businesses operating on thin margins. While we are deeply committed to our students' growth, organizing recitals and ensemble opportunities is often financially unfeasible. The options that remain dedicated to supporting music teachers are often heavily scheduled, meaning space isn't available. Our students miss critical performance experiences that build confidence, motivation, and musical skills. Families across all income levels also struggle to access quality music education due to cost barriers and lack of available teaching space. A Community Arts Center with sliding-scale pricing would address both challenges simultaneously.”
Odissi in Alameda
“I have been learning an East Indian Classical dance form called Odissi since 2012. Over the past few years my desire to share the art form with the larger community in Alameda has grown. After sourcing for possible venues, the only economically viable solution to offer classes has been from a tiny room in my home. As you can imagine, this is different from how the energetics would look like if classes were held in a public space. I continue to look for venues where I can offer the dance form at an affordable rate - both from the perspective of renting a studio space and offering the classes to the community at an affordable tuition rate. I fully support in establishing a Community Arts Center to draw similar people like me in and around Alameda and offer an enriching arts experience in Alameda. This opportunity can only bring in more income for the city by supporting surrounding local businesses and spreading the word about what a gem Alameda really is.”
Jolie’s Notes
“I teach classical violin and have lots of students who would love to get together and play some Haydn or Mozart together, but I don’t have access to an affordable space to make this dream comes true. I’d love to have a community orchestra joined with other string teachers of Alameda (there are quite a lot in Alameda actually!) where youth and adults amateurs play all together, sitting next to each other. Carnegie Hall would be the perfect location to bring talent to the island and I’m hopeful that the city of Alameda approves it.”
