Lynn J.
9/21/2024
The Boston Anthenaeum... Is it a library? Is it a museum? Is it live jazz music venue? Was it a private Boston club? The answer is, "all of the above." This historical building was once a...
Boston Athenaeum
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10 1/2 Beacon St
Boston, MA 02108
Founded in 1807, the Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest independent libraries in the United States. The Anthology Society, which founded the Boston Athenaeum, was a group of fourteen people who had joined together in 1805 to edit The Monthly Anthology and Boston Review. The library and art gallery, established in 1827, grew rapidly, both by purchase of books and art. By 1851, it had become one of largest libraries in the United States, with more than half a million volumes. The collections specialize in Boston history, New England state and local history, biography, English and American literature, fine and decorative arts. The athenaeum also sponsors a variety of events such as lectures and concerts. It also serves as a center for discussions among scholars, bibliophiles and a variety of community interest groups.
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Reviews
4.067 reviews
Frank B.
2/16/2025
We went on the tour and were very impressed by this Athenaeum. Lots of art fills the rooms on the first two floors, with the reference library above. My favorite part is the Drum room where 10...
Grier F.
4/9/2025
Pretentious and condescending behavior. For $40 for a day pass just to be treated poorly is not a good look. They make the upper floors exclusive by up charging. The only nice person were the...
Lily G.
4/9/2024
The entire Athenaeum is stunning beyond belief. For anyone fond of books-- particularly the smell, the feel, the novelty, the quiet of reading them-- this place is for you. The interior rivals...
Deb B.
9/23/2024
Absolutely beautiful adventure for a day in Beacon Hill area. We didn't get access to the stacks as we were just visiting briefly. The building itself gorgeous and welcomes you with red leather...
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