the library operated out of space given to them within various buildings in the city of concord and eventually influential citizens urged the board of trustees to borrow money to buy a building dedicated solely to a library. james w. cannon, founder of cannon mills gave $300 towards the purchase of a building for the library and in early 1913, the board purchased a small brick building located on south union street for a total cost of $3000. this building was remodeled in 1916 and "included the installation of a skylight and "quiet" signs."