Welcome to the Rhode Island History digital collection.
In addition to useful databases, this collection contains rare Rhode Island history books, which have been digitized by institutions from across the country, including Warwick Public Library.
Digital preservation not only safeguards fragile books from damage, but also ensures universal access, free of charge, and in full text.
Once you have found a book that interests you, navigate through to the digital copy. Leaf through the book, or use the in-text search box to quickly find what you are looking for.
It’s worth noting that pre-1930s books may not represent the diverse experiences within their communities and may contain language and perspectives that are offensive by contemporary standards. It is essential to interpret them within their historical context. For a more comprehensive understanding of history, explore the broader collections available at the library.
The images featured on these pages are linked to the original full-sized digital versions, with many sourced from the Warwick Historical Society collection. You can find their Flickr account listed at the bottom of this page under “Historical Societies and Museums.”