Smithfield Public Libraries

Is there a Smithfield Public Library?

There are two public libraries in Smithfield: the East Smithfield Public Library and the Greenville Public Library. Each library is a separate 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization registered with the State of Rhode Island. Roughly half of the public libraries in Rhode Island are private non-profits, with the rest being municipal departments. Unlike standard municipal libraries run directly by a city or town government department, nonprofit libraries are owned and governed by a private Board of Trustees. Even though they are privately incorporated, they serve the public free of charge and fulfill a vital civic role. 

Smithfield has two independently run library systems.  How did that happen? 

Both libraries have served their communities for over 100 years, and grew out of independent villages during a time before libraries were supported by taxpayer funding. The founders of the East Smithfield and Greenville Public Libraries were local residents who believed in the importance of libraries and worked to raise money and establish libraries in their communities. Although they have separate buildings, administration, and boards, East Smithfield and Greenville Libraries are both members of the Ocean State Libraries consortium. This means a library card from either library grants borrowing privileges at public libraries across the entire state. Each library is focused on serving the unique needs of their communities, and is a hub for learning, research, and community connection. 

FAQ

Q: Why do we need two libraries in Smithfield? 

A: It's partially geographic: Smithfield is divided by Route 295, and a single library would leave many residents underserved. Having two libraries ensures equal access to early childhood programming, free wifi and computer access, job application assistance, and educational resources. Additionally, each library meets different needs, and the two libraries have distinct identities even as we have established cooperation and collaboration in many areas. 

Q: How are the libraries funded? 

A: The Town of Smithfield provides roughly 70% of each library's funding, with the rest coming from the State of Rhode Island, grants, donations, and fundraising. Greenville also receives some annual funding from an endowment. 

Q: Who owns the library buildings?

A: The Greenville Public Library owns its building. The Town of Smithfield owns the East Smithfield Public Library building and leases it to the library.

Q: Where can I find more information about the libraries?

A: Public libraries in Rhode Island are required to submit an annual report to the State of Rhode Island through the Office of Library and Information Services (OLIS), which operates under the Department of Administration. OLIS participates in the national Public Libraries Survey (PLS), which is administered annually by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). Data submitted to the PLS goes through a vetting process to ensure accuracy. 

The data is publicly available on the OLIS website. 

As registered 501(C)(3) nonprofits, both libraries' IRS 990 forms are also publicly available. These can be accessed through the IRS' Tax Exempt Organization Search tool.

Q: Who is in charge of the libraries?

A: Each library is governed by its own Board of Trustees. Board members are town residents who are elected to oversee policy, budget, and governance. The daily operations of the libraries are overseen by the directors. The current director of Greenville Public Library is Corrie Alves and the current director of East Smithfield Public Library is Patrick Lyons. 

Q: How do I support the libraries?

A: By coming to the libraries to enjoy all the services we provide! 

Other Resources

Rhode Island State Laws Relating to Libraries

Library Funding