Carnegie Foundation to Distribute $10K Grants to U.S. Libraries

Carnegie Libraries across America will each receive a $10,000 gift to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence through an initiative announced by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.

Philanthropist Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of 1,681 free public libraries in the U.S. between 1886 and 1917. There are about 1,280 of these libraries that still operate and acknowledge their link to Carnegie, making them eligible for the celebratory gift.

“Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, who championed the free public library movement of the late 19th century, described libraries as ‘cradles of democracy’ that ‘strengthen the democratic idea, the equality of the citizen, and the royalty of man,’” said Dame Louise Richardson, president of Carnegie and former head of the University of Oxford, in a statement. “We still believe this and are delighted to celebrate our connection to the libraries he founded.”

Recipients will receive a check in January 2026. They may use the funds however they wish to celebrate the 250th anniversary, further their mission, and benefit their community.

The library gifts anchor the foundation's $20 million special initiative created to celebrate next year’s 250th anniversary by supporting America’s civic institutions and organizations that foster civic participation and bring people together, including Carnegie Hall, the Museum of the City of New York, and Yo-Yo Ma’s Silkroad.