Message from the Director

If you are reading this, it means that you are among the growing number of library patrons who visit us online. Each year people access our web site with increasing frequency and retrieve a growing amount of information.

For 130 years, Providence Public Library (PPL) has striven to collect and preserve invaluable information resources and share them with our patrons.

We face increasing challenges, both in managing and providing our patrons with access to a continually-expanding universe of information and maintaining the broad range of traditional roles we play in our community. However, we recognize what the public library represents to all members of our community and are committed to our mission of providing free access to information and opportunities for learning to all.

In Providence, we know that our libraries are safe and welcoming civic places for people of all ages to meet, study and learn. We also know our libraries and our dedicated staff offer the world of wonder and possibility to children and families, particularly new residents in our city.

As we have throughout our history, we will continue to utilize our resources in innovative ways to provide the range of services necessary to meet the needs of our growing and changing population. Through the web and expanded resources available online, including our statewide catalog, more databases and new electronic and web-based services, we are able to reach out and serve not only those who live in our own community, but around the globe.

As we strive to preserve the best from the past, we are also committed to embracing what is most essential for our future. The possibilities are endless!