The John Carter Brown Library is a hidden gem on the Brown University Green. It is a research library dedicated to the history of the Americas before 1825. It has one of the best collections of relevant books and maps in the world, in languages including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Dutch, German, and Amerindian languages. Housed in a splendid Belle Epoque building, there is always a small and interesting exhibition of rare old books. There are also frequent lectures open to the public and other academic and cultural events. Qualified researchers can get permission to read here.