The Providence Athenaeum is one of America's oldest member-supported libraries, and it has functioned as such since 1753 (although the present structure was built in 1838). According to a 19th-century legend, the poet Edgar Allen Poe courted Sarah Whitman in the stacks of this granite Greek Revival building. Some of the collections include documents and books from the original Providence Library, rare editions from the likes of Louisa May Alcott, Herman Melville and other American authors, along with the Robert Burns collection, which has more than 400 items. Today, the Athenaeum hosts events round the year focusing on education for both adults as well as children.
Website: providenceathenaeum.org
Phone: (401) 421-6970
Cross Streets: Between College St and Hopkins St
Closed now
- Sun Closed
251 Benefit Street Providence, RI 02903 ·502.41 mi
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Amenities
- Accessible
- Family friendly
Reviews
tripadvisor
Despite the lofty name, the Providence Athenaeum is a small, 3-level library founded centuries ago befitting the small city and state in which it’s located. I came for the $5 self-guided audio tour, which highlights the sculptures, artwork and history of the library. But the main appeal is the opportunity to relax and read in a comfortable, quiet and well-lit space, although the prime seating is reserved for library members.
MoreVery cool! If you like books or architecture it is worth stopping by.
MoreSuch a beautiful library. Full of character and books that were very old and new. It was a nice space to check out in the city.
MoreIf you are in town already and have extra time, the Providence Athenaeum is worth a quick visit. Its history as the nation’s oldest still-circulating library is fascinating. The tour is self-guided by reading off your phone. Viewing the historic building with its cozy book-filled alcoves, busts of historical figures, card catalog (with handwritten cards from prior centuries), and rare books room was very interesting. I toured quickly, in less than an hour. It was fun to pop in after my visit to RISD Museum, before I went to dinner.
MoreGreat for the history, wasn’t as big as I expected. Very nice place to stop and see while walking around. Staff was very nice and knowledgeable
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