The historic Carnegie Library is the official home of the Paso Robles History Museum and the El Paso de Robles Area Historical Society (PRAHS), which assumed steward-ship of the building in 1995.  This beautiful neo-classic revival structure was originally funded by a $10,000 grant from industrialist Andrew Carnegie.  The building opened on June 19, 1908 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.  The Carnegie Library is located in the center of the Paso Robles City Park.

The main floor of the Carnegie Library houses the Paso Robles History Museum, curated and staffed by Historical Society volunteers.  The Museum features exhibits and displays which celebrate the area’s unique history.  Books on local history are available for purchase.  The downstairs houses the Virginia Peterson Research Library and Archives as well as the Historical Society offices.

As part of our commitment to promote knowledge of local history, the PRAHS hosts lectures, living history programs, tours, guest speakers, book signings, films, fundraisers and educational experiences.

The Wine History Project has created a gallery of rotating exhibits and events related to the history of wine in San Luis Obispo County.

The mission of the Historical Society is to collect, protect, and preserve photographs, documents and publications related to Paso Robles and its surrounding area and to promote and share fuller knowledge of local history through exhibits, research, and educational efforts throughout the community.  The PRAHS is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization.