The Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society seeks to preserve and share maritime history—with an emphasis on the history of Puget Sound. To this end, the society operates a research library. The library, located in the Museum of History and Industry, includes 4,500 volumes, more than 100 periodicals, 15,000 photographs of maritime vessels, and 40,000 negatives.

The society offers research library access and several exhibits hosted by other institutions. Appointments are required for library access. Exhibits are located at the Museum of History and Industry and at Chandler's Cove. The website offers videos of past speaker presentations.