It may seem a little shocking, but Rhode Island has over 60 libraries! Yup, you read that right, over 60 libraries. For such a small state, that sure is a lot, but luckily we also have a lot of book lovers and these libraries get put to good use. There is so much variety to our states lending libraries and each one has their own appeal to those enthusiastic about books and reading. One library we think deserves a bit more recognition is Brown University’s John Hay library.

John Hay Library in Providence is an often unexplored hidden gem of the city.
Will Hart/Flickr
Not only is the building itself gorgeous, but it is packed with history.
Will Hart/Flickr
Named after John Hay, personal assistant to Abraham Lincoln and past student of Brown university, the library was founded in 1910 and its collection continues to grow to this day.
The library has a huge general collection that is great for research and is available at all times to Brown students, and occasionally open to the public, but the real draw of this library is their massive special collections section.
zemistor/Flickr

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You will need to make an appointment to spend time in the special collections, but it is well worth your time!
Joe King/Flickr
The special collections feature four books bound in human skin, quite macabre, but rare and fascinating nonetheless!
Joe King/Flickr
Considering there are only fourteen books like this in America, Brown owning over a quarter of them is truly amazing.
Continuing with a theme of the macabre, the library has a massive H.P. Lovecraft collection. Housing over 1,000 books about Lovecraft and 2,000 pieces of his original work, it is safe to say this is one of the largest collections to be found out there.
Will Hart/Flickr
All in all the library houses over 1.5 MILLION books, artifacts, and files, so you are sure to find something to be fascinated by.
Brown University/Wikimedia Commons

What are you most excited to check out in this massive library? Or do you just want to wander the stacks and see what grabs you? Make sure to check the library’s website for information about hours, special events, and making an appointment to see the special collections.

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John Hay Library, 20 Prospect St, Providence, RI 02912, USA