Alternative Lending

The Braddock Avenue/Kenmawr Avenue ramp onto the Rankin Bridge is closed through the end of the year. Please check your route for detours.

SEARCH THE CATALOG

The Braddock Avenue/Kenmawr Avenue ramp onto the Rankin Bridge is closed through the end of the year. Please check your route for detours.

SEARCH THE CATALOG

Something Different

Extending beyond traditional books and media, our Alternative Lending collection offers a diverse range of unique and non-traditional items that you can borrow to explore new hobbies, unleash your creativity, and expand your horizons. Step outside the ordinary, borrow the extraordinary, and embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery.

Our Alternative Lending Collection began as our Art Collection, which you can read about below. It has now expanded to include tables, chairs, and tents for events; puppets; canning and button making kits; tools; and more! Right now, while our building is under construction, some of the items are not available for circulation. You can see what is available on this list in the library catalog.

Art Lending Collection

Established in October 2013 as an artist project by Transformazium for the Carnegie International, the Art Lending Collection offers a unique opportunity for library patrons throughout Allegheny County to experience contemporary art firsthand. Our locally hired and trained Arts and Culture Facilitators curate public programs that showcase the diverse histories, perspectives, and learning opportunities within the realm of contemporary art. By emphasizing the role of the community as both producers and interpreters of culture, we foster a dynamic and engaging environment where art remains relevant and accessible to all.

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The Art Lending Collection features an assortment of original collections, including artworks donated by participating artists of the 2013 Carnegie International, posters of beloved paintings donated by Regis Welsh, a library patron and scholar of literature and Impressionism, works from the collections of local residents Jim Kidd and Ray Henderson, and pieces assembled by Transformazium that have influenced their practice. Additionally, we proudly exhibit artworks and texts created by incarcerated artists at the South Fayette Correctional Institution, curated by Mary Carey and Richard Guy.

In addition to the artwork available for borrowing, the Art Lending Collection includes a selection of reference materials, such as art historical books, theoretical texts, and artist monographs. These resources expand the possibilities for discourse and interpretation surrounding each art piece, offering further context and historical information about the artists and their works. Our collection of books has been carefully curated by esteemed arts educators, including Rick Lowe, Jon Rubin, Julie Ault, Harrell Fletcher, and Helen Reed, ensuring diverse perspectives and opening new access points to contemporary arts discourse. Explore the intersection of art and knowledge through the Art Lending Program, and embark on a unique artistic journey from the comfort of your own home.

Experience Kits

Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of the Pittsburgh region by exploring local historical sites and museums with our exclusive partnership programs. Thanks to our collaboration with the Heinz Center Affiliates Program and other Allegheny County libraries, we are thrilled to offer FREE ADMISSION for up to six children and two adults to several esteemed museums and historical sites.

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Uncover the past at the renowned Heinz History Center, where the pass grants you access not only to the History Center itself but also to the fascinating Fort Pitt Museum and Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories of Historic Fort Steuben, Old Economy Village, Bradford House and Whiskey Rebellion Center, Fort Ligonier, Railroaders Memorial Museum & Horseshoe Curve, and many more.

To take advantage of this incredible opportunity, simply visit the Braddock Carnegie Library Association and check out the passes using your library card. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, and each pass can be borrowed for one week.

But that's not all! Each pass also provides virtual access to a wealth of educational information, inspiring itinerary ideas, and engaging content. Click the buttons below to open an information sheet on your desired location. A new window will appear, presenting you with a PDF containing all the exciting details.

Embark on a journey through time and enrich your understanding of the region's vibrant history. Explore these remarkable museums and historical sites, and let their stories unfold before your eyes.

What’s coming up...

Squonk's Sonic Science Workshop
April 27 | 1pm

Join Squonk for a fun and FREE workshop exploring the science of sound and the joy of music. "Squonk in the Libraries" leaders T-Funk and Lindsey will lead games and activities for all ages at the Braddock's Battlefield History Center.

As a group we will immerse ourselves in how rhythm and sound play a part in each of our lives with exciting music and movement games, and improvisation! The workshop will include rich, creative experimentation and expression exploring the world of sound, including waves, pitch, rhythm and musical language.

We include the fascinating bridge between our left and right brain: audio and visual, science and art, while enjoying music in its rich complexity and joy!