The Carnegie-Evans Public Library in Albia is now home to a special collection, thanks to a heartfelt donation from the family of a well-known historian with deep roots in the community.
Julia Grant, daughter of the late H. Roger Grant and Martha Grant, recently donated a selection of her father’s books to the library. H. Roger Grant, a native of Albia, spent his life studying and writing about American history—especially the history of railroads and transportation in the United States.
Over the years, Grant authored and edited more than 40 books, becoming a respected voice in his field and a passionate storyteller of America’s transportation legacy. His work has helped preserve the rich history of the railroad era, and now, that legacy will live on right here in his hometown.
Library staff say they’re honored to receive the donation and look forward to making the collection available to the public.
It’s a meaningful way to celebrate one of Albia’s own—and to keep his knowledge and love for history rolling down the tracks for future generations.
