The RLSM library collection consists of many rare and hard to find books and periodicals dating from the 17th century to the present. The collection numbers approximately six thousand, with the most special selection being the hundreds of books that belonged to Stevenson, which often include his annotations. Also important is the complete collection of first editions and the many finely bound editions (which had been a particular favorite of museum founder Norman H. Strouse). 

Its four main categories are:

• The Stevenson family’s personal library from their Vailima estate in Samoa 
• Stevenson biographies, letter anthologies, and critical studies of Stevenson’s work 
• Publications of Stevenson’s work
• Related Reference Materials