The Providence City Council passed a resolution on Nov. 6 recognizing Patricia Raub, a longtime advocate for neighborhood libraries and public transit who died Oct. 29, 2025.
The clerk read the resolution, which details Raub's lifelong work as a historian and organizer, her role as a founding member of the Community Libraries of Providence, her leadership with transit riders and her organizing on behalf of janitors and other workers. The text called on the council to transmit copies of the resolution to her husband, Rob Goff, and the board of the Community Libraries of Providence.
Councilwoman Peterson said Raub was "the quintessential community leader" and described Raub's work supporting libraries and outreach in her ward. "If it wasn't for Patricia, we wouldn't have been able to receive the outreach from the Providence Preservation Society," Peterson said, citing Raub's role in local advocacy.
Councilwoman Graves, who said she had known Raub for decades, described Raub as a "quiet woman" with inner strength who could bring people together. "She always cared about the whole city," Graves said, listing Raub's work for children, seniors and job-seekers.
Others, including Councilman Bridal and Councilwoman Anabra, recalled Raub's history of organizing and solidarity with workers and transit advocates. A number of council members noted Raub's role in preserving neighborhood library branches and in organizing community responses to state proposals.
The resolution passed unanimously. The clerk was directed to transmit copies of the resolution to Raub's family and to the Community Libraries of Providence.