Research & Collections
Providence Public Library offers a rich variety of resources, whether you're looking for artistic inspiration, working on a research paper or a dissertation, starting a new business or just looking for something good to read.
One of the best places to start your search is by contacting our Information Services librarians for guidance. Then find resources related to a subject you're interested in and search our online catalog. We have historic materials from around the world and across time, and you can visit to use them for research or just for fun. Many of our materials are available online.
Upcoming Events
- Exhibition: Spaces That Hold Us artwork by Bhen Alan
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - Exhibition: Wheel of Fortune artwork by Eli Kauffman
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 - Exhibition: Spaces That Hold Us artwork by Bhen Alan
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Exhibition: Wheel of Fortune artwork by Eli Kauffman
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Exhibition: Spaces That Hold Us artwork by Bhen Alan
Friday, May 16, 2025 - Exhibition: Wheel of Fortune artwork by Eli Kauffman
Friday, May 16, 2025 - Exhibition: Spaces That Hold Us artwork by Bhen Alan
Saturday, May 17, 2025 - Exhibition: Wheel of Fortune artwork by Eli Kauffman
Saturday, May 17, 2025

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Work with Historical Materials

Research will always be integral to my work. Innovation is important, but we need to know and respect the origins of the typefaces. I’m fortunate and thrilled to have the Updike Collection so close at hand… it is such a valuable resource and Jordan (PPL’s Head Curator of Collections) is a huge help to me in finding what I need.
2016 Winner of the Updike Prize for Student Type Design