Honestly, a photo session in Providence Public Library wasn’t what I was expecting to start 2024. One of my couples, Merrill and Erin, wanted this as their session location. And of course, they were right to pick it.

Providence Public Library Info

Providence Public Library, or PPL, was founded in 1875 and is located on Empire Street in the city. Though it serves the Rhode Island public, the library is actually privately funded and controlled. It’s cool that the library is somewhat immune to government control.

Two brides pose together during their Providence Public Library engagement session.

Locations Within Providence Public Library

Between in 2018 and 2020, PPL underwent major construction to become what it is today. Simply put, the library is big.

In addition to meetings and engagement sessions, Providence Public Library also functions as a wedding venue. Several indoor locations can be reserved for substantial private events:

Garden Courtyard and Grand Hall: These spaces are commonly used for wedding ceremonies and cocktail hours. The Grand Hall overlooks the Garden Courtyard.
Ship Room: With an apparent nautical vibe (paying homage to the state of Rhode Island), this space is popular for receptions.
Rhode Island Room: Great as an add-on reception space on your wedding day.

A multitude of other rooms and spaces at PPL can also be reserved. Surely these possibilities are great for patrons and book lovers. But they’re also great for those of you considering having a photo session or wedding at Providence Public Library.

Providence Public Library Wedding Venue Info

As mentioned earlier, you can also have your wedding at Providence Public Library. The library’s exclusive event partner is Russell Morin Catering and Events. This Massachusetts-based vendor will handle everything when you get married at PPL, from furniture to feeding your guests.

Like nearby venues Graduate Providence and Providence Athenaeum, PPL is centrally located in downtown Providence. So, be sure to plan on visiting some of the other great portrait locations on your wedding day with your friends and family.

Providence Public Library Wedding Costs

According to their catering partner, a wedding day at Providence Public Library averages between $35,000 and $40,000 for a 125-person event.

Booking PPL for a Wedding or Session

To book spaces at PPL, visit this page, scroll down, and fill out their contact form.

Nearby Providence Neighborhoods

This post details Federal Hill and other great locations in Providence for photos.

Merrill and Erin’s PPL Photo Session

When I arrived at PPL to photograph Merrill and Erin’s engagement session, it was about 20 degrees outside. I hurried inside to meet my new friends for the first time in person.

These two reserved the Updike Room and Marble Staircase for their engagement session at Providence Public Library.

Congratulations to Merrill and Erin; we had such a good time during their session. I can’t wait for their wedding celebration!