Office of Library & Information Services (OLIS)
Every resident of Rhode Island has free access to a statewide library system run by Office of Library & Information Services (OLIS). With a local library card, students, parents, and teachers can use research databases, ebooks and audiobooks, and learning programs at no cost. Here is what is available and how to get it.
Rhode Island public libraries at a glance
Research databases: AskRI.org
AskRI.org is Rhode Island's free statewide research service.
Resources students can use inside AskRI.org include:
- EBSCO Explora (primary, secondary, public)
- Academic Search & NoveList
- World Book (Kids, Student, Advanced)
- LearningExpress Library + Job & Career Accelerator
- Mango Languages
- Gale Presents: Udemy
Ebooks & audiobooks: Ocean State Libraries eZone (Libby/OverDrive), free with a library card.
Homework help: Tutor.com
Tutor.com offers free live online tutoring to Rhode Islanders through AskRI.
Accessible reading & talking books
Students and family members who cannot read standard print (because of a visual, physical, or reading disability such as dyslexia) can get free audiobooks and braille through Talking Books Plus, part of the national NLS network and its BARD download service. The Talking Books Library for the Blind & Print-Disabled, run by OLIS and funded by the Library of Congress NLS, serves RI residents who can't read standard print; apply through OLIS.
Find a library & get a card
Use the official locator to find your nearest Rhode Island public library, hours, and how to get a card. Find a library →
Most Rhode Island libraries run a Summer reading program each summer to keep kids reading and prevent summer learning loss. Ask your local branch for dates.