Environmental and Security Upgrades to Preserve Library Collections

FAIN: PF-50152-11

Rhode Island Historical Society (Providence, RI 02906-1012)
Bernard Fishman (Project Director: December 2010 to September 2011)
Christiana Morgan Grefe (Project Director: September 2011 to December 2015)

An implementation project to install a sustainable environmental control system and make building improvements and security upgrades to preserve collections documenting the history of Rhode Island from pre-European contact to the present.

The Rhode Island Historical Society (RIHS) seeks $400,000 to support a $1.3 million project to install an environmental and humidity control system to protect the most important collection of Rhode Island historical material. The upgrade uses geothermal and solar components to elevate efficiencies and enhance long-term sustainability. It will secure the building envelope from moisture penetration, improve its thermal qualities, and enhance safety and security systems. The RIHS has successfully completed similar systems and complex construction projects. Project designs have been approved by the state historic preservation organization. Fundraising is well advanced and an NEH award is expected to be the last element needed to complete the effort. Recently reaccredited by the American Association of Museums, the RIHS sustains high standards of collections care and management. Current RIHS strategic plans have identified the Library upgrade as its highest collections-related priority.