Online Catalog: NETOP

 NETOP (NETworked Online Public catalog) is a working database, providing online access to the Collections of the Rhode Island Historical Society. We have been collecting and cataloging since 1822, therefore records in NETOP may vary in level of detail. Every month we update and refine current records while adding new records and images. The Rhode Island Historical Society online catalog contains records for all genres of the Society’s collections. This includes, but is not limited to: books, objects, maps, manuscripts, newspapers, paintings, film, textiles, pamphlets, and broadsides.

Basic Search: Use basic search to find collection items using single-term keywords

Advanced Search: Use advanced search to find collection items using multiple terms in multiple fields

Mary Elizabeth Robinson Research Center

Direct, in-person access to the materials in the RRC is by appointment only. There are no walk-in hours.

  • E-mail reference@rihs.org to set up a reference interview and to make an appointment for your 2-hour visit.
  • For details on hours, etc. Click Here.

Email the Reference Staff to start your research

Reference and Research Services

Reference & research services during the COVID-19 pandemic: The RIHS has created a new structure of the remote reference and research services it can offer. Our goal remains to serve the public as equitably as possible while ensuring the sustainability of the organization.

FREE to every researcher: Reference interview (via phone, e-mail, or video chat) and up to 1 hour of research and scanning**

FREE to every RIHS Member: Reference interview (via phone, e-mail, or video chat) and up to 2 hours of research and scanning**

BEYOND the above, the following charges apply:

  • Research charge of $50 / hour (an estimate will be provided before work begins)
  • Copy charge of $0.25 per scanned** item (up to legal size only; larger formats TBD)

**Scanning subject to condition of material. Rates may be subject to change.

Rights & Reproductions

To request reproductions for publications, see our Rights & Reproductions page.