Carnegie's philanthropy included the funding of 1,679 libraries in the United States. Between 1898 and 1919, he funded libraries in 1406 communities. A key community member would apply via personal correspondence with Carnegie.

Constructed in 1905, the Town of Silverton's Carnegie Library has developed structural deficiencies that have already forced the closure of the basement and, if not addressed soon, could force the closure of this important community resource. The Town, in partnership with the Friends of the Library, has sought $35,000 in funding from the State Historical Fund for the preparation of a letter condition report and construction documents to guide the stabilization, preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of this historic building.

The construction documents will address 1) masonry restoration, 2) concrete restoration, 3) wood trim restoration, 4) window replication, 5) roof replacement and drainage restoration, 6) structural stabilization, 7) ADA accessibility, 8) electrical system upgrades and 9) interior rehabilitation necessary to mitigate water penetration.