Program in Early Cultures

Local Resources

Researchers at Brown can also take advantage of relevant resources elsewhere in Providence, Boston, and the wider region.

Named for its benefactor, William R. Bonniwell, O.P. (1886-1984), Providence College's Bonniwell Collection contains approximately 2000 volumes. Mainly relevant to the study of liturgy, printed books from the fifteenth through the twentieth century make up most of its collection.

The Providence Athenæum is an independent, member-supported library and cultural center located on Providence’s historic Benefit Street. The library is one of the oldest of its kind in the country, having been operating for over 200 years. In addition to lending books, the Athenæum sponsors lectures, readings, discussions, community conversation, and concerts. The building itself is acclaimed for its beauty and its striking architecture.

Providence Public Library (PPL) is a 143-year-old nonprofit corporation providing free public library services through its rich and historic physical and digital collections, extensive information resources, exhibitions, and educational programs.

The Rhode Island Archival and Manuscript Collections Online (RIAMCO) is the gateway to information about archival collections in Rhode Island. Using RIAMCO's search functions, it is possible to find primary source historical materials located at repositories across Rhode Island and available for research purposes.

The state of Rhode Island is not only rich in history, but rich in historical resources. The Rhode Island Historical Society has compiled a searchable database of online resources related to the state's history, which is called the Rhode Island History Online Directory Initiative (RHODI). The RHODI directory includes 191 organizations and 352 individual properties with collections or programs related to Rhode Island history and heritage, all of which are accessible to the public. Each directory listing contains descriptive information, photos, and links to other websites.

The Ancient Art collection of the Rhode Island School of Design's Museum of Art includes bronze figural sculpture and vessels, an exceptional collection of Greek coins, stone sculpture, Greek vases, paintings, and mosaics, as well as Roman jewelry and glass.