The Carter County Public Libraries offer a wide range of services which include summer reading programs, book clubs, a genealogy society, adult education classes (Grayson branch) and is linked to Libby – a free online eBook library. The Olive Hill branch of the libraries was first opened in December 2008. Prior to this, the library was kept open by volunteers from the mid-1980s until its official opening in 2008. The Grayson branch opening date is currently unknown.

The mission of the Rowan County Public Library is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens in and near our service area by providing a catalog of items and information for their leisure and lifelong learning needs.