PPL Is 150 Years Old!
We invite you to join the celebration.
Since our founding in 1875, Rhode Islanders have turned to us as a free and open place to gather – where they can engage, learn, and thrive.
As a private, non-profit organization providing free public library service, we have a long-standing tradition of democratizing education and opportunity – inspiring everyone to be lifelong learners, engaging their curiosity, and offering access to extraordinary experiences, resources, and ideas.
Join us as we celebrate 150 years of serving our community!
Take a journey through time.
Help us collect 150 stories in our 150th year!
Tell Us Your Story!
PPL is collecting 150 stories to celebrate our 150th year! Do you have a meaningful or even just fun library story or memory to share? We'd love to hear it!
JOIN US at PPL's Birthday Party on Saturday, April 12 and tell us your story!
Meet Some PPL Alum
Finan
With the Library’s programs focused on workforce development, I have been able to get high-demand skills. I sincerely appreciate the resources and opportunities provided, from stipends, to education, to professional skills and job opportunities.
Vivian Liu
I am so grateful to be part of such a transformative educational initiative. The computer skills class has been a catalyst for my personal and professional growth, building my confidence and driving me to improve. I can't thank my teachers and PPL enough...
Emmanuel
The opportunity I've had as a teaching assistant and my experience with PPL is something I don't think I would be able to get anywhere else and I think that the information and what I've learned from PPL I can transfer into the real world.
Explore PPL in pictures through the years.
