Athenaeum Music & Arts Library

I really encourage more folks especially young people aka Gen Z and Millenials to join this library and take art classes! The art studio here is professional quality with amazing lighting. A wide variety of classes are taught by different teachers throughout the year online and in-person. I tried to attend one of their lunchtime chamber concerts. The entry is in the rotunda/attached spherical building not the main library entrance and I was surprised that seats fill up fast. And start promptly so I missed it by 8 minutes looking for the door and would have to sit or stand in the hallway to watch so I skipped it. It made sense almost all the attendees were retirees and senior citizens so they're able to enjoy a concert in the middle of the day. But, this is San Diego! There are so many adults of every generation free and walking around on a Wednesday afternoon. Take an art class here in your free time. Being a member saves you a bit on enrollment and gives you access to their media library and printed newsletter. This space is gorgeous inside and out and very peaceful for reading. Ive spoken with the art school director and she cares about students having a good experience.

You like books? You like art? You like learning about books and/or art? Come on out to one of their weeknight lectures on Art History and learn more about 17th century Dutch landscape artscapes than you ever thought you could retain

Just saw Sullivan Fortner’s trio play here on one of their jazz nights. Absolutely brilliant. This venue gets the best of the best of jazz artists in an intimate setting. A perfect evening.

I wanted to come here for the murals, but the outside murals are spread apart. Maybe someone can commission a Google maps version so one could follow. The interior of the library was chill. I like the exhibition that was being held on 2/15/23 when you turned left upon entry into the library.

It is a music and art library. I like it because it is classy and historic at the same time. Exhibits and books are very rare and authentic to see and read in this library. They do special events, concerts, and art classes in this building.

I used to work doubles at a local restaurant in the 90’s and this place recharged me between shifts. There was a lovely docent who knew my schedule and would wake me when I needed to leave. Absolutely, one of the most lovely memories I have of La Jolla. 🥰❤️🙇🏼‍♂️🙇🏼‍♂️

The music performance was beyond avant garde....it was sadly monotonous. Every "song", based on depressing poems that the composer wrote his compositions for, were 'sort of sung' by a vocalist (whose voice was very good in spite of the material). Unfortunately all pieces sounded like the last and all were the same tempo; very dark, slow and without a real melody whatsoever. Nothing uplifting. I felt like I was at a wake. I should have done my homework ahead and checked out this Jazz performance artist who was being featured at this New Jazz Workshop.

I’d love to stay here for a whole day

Music or Art? What's your poison?? Don't worry! You need not chose, you can have both here. Founded in La Jolla in 1899, the Athenaeum Library is a non profit organization that is dedicated to Music and Art. It's open to the public but if you want to use materials and services, you can join by paying to become a member; $50 for individuals and $75 for the entire family. Their website's description is as follows: ath-e-nae-um; [ath-uh-ney-uh m] The temple of Athena at Athens, where writers and scholars met. The Roman academy of law, literature, etc. founded by Hadrian, and active until the 5th century A.D. A literary or scientific association or club. Any building or hall used as a library or reading room. Upon entry, Fendi and I were greeted cordially by a lady behind a desk, who was helpful, nice and answered my questions. To the left of the entryway is the art gallery which currently, exhibits oil on canvas art works from LA artist Maria Takal will be available to view in the gallery until July 13. This library offers something for the entire family young and old, from children's books, many archived reference books and an impressive collection of music in VHS format! This library was clean, organized and offered a quiet refuge for reading, research and studying Music and Art, definitely a worthwhile visit. Recommend.

Excellent mini concert on Mondays from 12-1. I found out about them coincidentally while at a doctor appointment nearby and looking for cool things to do in La Jolla right after. It is a beautiful setting and was surprised to see the room packed. I even met new friends! Great to cultivate the spirit and senses with classical music from time to time. I am very open, from Bad Bunny to Mozart everything goes as soon as captivates you. The building is beautiful and historical landmark in La Jolla. Program well put together.

Did you know that the Athenaeum offers a great art scene outside of the museum/library? Think big and imagine 16 paintings on the sides of businesses. Treat yourself to a special treat and sign up for the monthly free docent walk. You will many of these art pieces during an hour and a half leisurely walk. Walks are on Wednesday from 5:30 to 7 pm. Sign up is through their website. Or, just go to the Athenaeum and ask for a map which shows the locations for all 16 sites. And, do the walk on your own. Yesterday's walk was led by an engaging gal who is a part of the artist selection and design process. So, she was able to tell us all about the artist and the many details of each art work. This story enables you to connect to each piece.

What A delightful little place to stumble upon. Filled with books, art, and perfect little corners to sit and read as you wind around the place. Staff was helpful and I loved all the niches with surprise quotes and art.

Wonderful little place! Historical, children's story time and wonderful staff! Great ambience. Fun.

I applied for their juror exhibition recently and received notice that my work was not chosen. I am ok with that but please tell me why. I spend money entering this juried exhibition bur at least have your two curators send a personal email to the artist as to why they excluded my work. It seems to me that this institution lacks transparency. Celebrate diversity not excluded. My money lines up the pocket of this institution and the curators and i will never ever enter a juried exhibition again and it's a scam.

Came to look for jazz books to purchase. Very unwelcomed disappointing experience! Could use a way better person at the front desk. The Red hair receptionist is very rude, snarky and dismissive if you don't look like you "belong" (trying hard not to bring race into this) but if it's her co-worker or boss, she's super bubbly and voice get 10 octaves higher! People like those do NOT belong on the front lines greeting guests! If you hate doing that fake it like you do when talking to your coworkers.

Pretty rude. I was gonna get membership but this young girl's rude attitude made me change my mind. Why should one buy membership if they're not gonna show some class? Particularly in La Jolla.

I am in love In love with a library I don't know if Prop 8 will cover this but let's hope the courts will recognize this needed union. One of only 16 nonprofit membership libraries in the United States and one of two west of the Mississippi and it's over 110 years old. Really? Yes. If you have a working brain and want to keep it in tip top shape, head straight there an invest your time in the fine arts... If your brain is thirsty for knowledge, drink at the fountain of music, arts and calming surroundings... This will improve your life and most definitely make your brain bigger... Make sure to keep this a secret as Zombies are sure to find out and stop at your house for a big meal. I haven't had the chance to go to a concert or artist series as yet but LOVE the books and the incredible selection of topics... I drool over their section of sheet music and opera librettos I love reading the score to my favorite classical piece and listening along... Best Part: Open and Free to the Public to enjoy but only members may take books out. PLUS, it's beautiful... inside and out. When you do become a member you are allowed to take out at any given time.... 5 Books 5 Magazines 5 Record Albums 5 Music Scores 5 CDs 5 DVDs 5 Videos CDs, DVDs and Videos Circulate for two weeks all other material for four weeks! $.50 for each item that is overdue. An individual member is $40 A family membership (meaning spouse and kids) for the entire year is $50 And a $75 "A- List" Membership gives all the perks of a membership and entitles you to two invites to all their "A-List" Events. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10-5:30 Open Late till 8:30 on Wednesday Closed Sundays, Mondays and Holidays Now I just have to pick out our wedding bands...

I am taking Jill Badonsky's "Wild Abandon Sketch and Watercolor" art class at Athenaeum Music and & Arts Library. I am completely enjoying every minute because I'm learning art techniques in a very safe environment! The 4 hour class zooms by because Jill has such a fun way of teaching. The class size is perfect and I'm meeting some very nice people. I'll definitely sign up for another class!

This gracious Spanish Renaissance-style building was dedicated and opened to the public in 1921, and is noted for its striking rotunda. The Athenaeum has taken on an increasingly active role in the cultural life of San Diego. The library has added a large number of year-round events and programs, including art exhibitions. The exhibit I experienced was an art class that artisans received leaves of old, most likely worn out books and drew on them. Often the artist would correlate his vision with the written word on the page. In the Joan & Irwin Jacobs Music Room, I experienced volumes of Johann Sebastian Bach's thematic-systematic catalogue of musical works. The publications are very cool. All of the walls, floors and furniture have been restored to their full beauty and elegance.

I came here once for a late night gathering of urban professionals who "respect the arts" and couldn't have been more impressed. This is a beautiful space, would make a great reception for a smaller wedding. Great place to bring your pretentious friends, as they have some modern art that would certainly impress.

I believe its not a very friendly place to go and proper image of what La Jolla wants to represent. I visited the library and was very unimpressed, not much inside and outside surrounded by homeless. An organization like this should be a positive and active member of the community instead seems to be closed at all hours and only available to the donors.

I swooped into the Athenaeum for the first time last night for their regular urbanite gathering, The A-List. It's a mixer geared towards young professionals and attracts all sorts of good looking people with fancy job titles and notable credit card debt. It was actually a pretty fun event, complete with complimentary Karl Strauss beer, food from Jai (the Wolfgang Puck restaurant in UTC) and the musical stylings of local band Silent Comedy. Though a fun and well-organized event, The A-List isn't necessarily an accurate depiction of what Athenaeum does on a daily basis. It's a 109 year-old library on Wall Street that focuses intently on music and arts literature. The facility is absolutely stunning, and from the moment I stepped foot through the front door, it was my new favorite library. Everything from the historic and ornate fixtures, to the unparalleled comfort of the reading area, Athenaeum really brings the library game to the next level. It's not exactly a public library, but becoming a member isn't a bad investment. It's only $40 for a yearlong membership, and it entitles you to take home any of their vast collection of art and music literature, CDs and DVDs as well access to their art and music lectures they organize a few times per month. Apparently, this is one of 17 private libraries located throughout the United States, and most of them are on the east coast. You might be thinking, 'La Jolla art library--boring!' Not so much.... They have modern art collections from the likes of Shepard Fairey, Banksy and Neck Face. Good stuff! In addition to the A-List event, they have hip art gallery openings on a regular basis and they let anyone come inside to read newspapers on the weekends. Grab some java at the Coffee Cup up the street, snatch the New York Times, and settle down for a couple of hours in the quaint reading area. I promise, you'll find no more glorious way to kick-start a lazy Sunday morning.

I always walk by the Atheneum and think how, some day, when I'm sophisticated, I would like to go in there. Well, I never did get sophisticated, but my friend snapped up a pair of tickets to "Flix on Bricks" -- so last night we sat on the patio of the Atheneum sipping Bellinis and watching Roman Holiday in the summer air. Walking through the beautiful building, it's a library for art and music lovers alike. I had always eyed the catalog, but after the quality of last night's event, I'm hoping to attend more events here. So yeah, I'll be getting a membership, and then I will promptly proceed to brag about it. Sophisticated is as sophisticated pays for.

I used to work at the Athenaeum while I was going to college. One of the rare nonprofit membership libraries in the country, this beautiful neo-classical building has been such a great resource for my art historical research that I still have copies of eclectic art publications I gathered from there. Their art show openings are usually fun and interesting. Moreover, their classical music and jazz concerts are set in a lovely backdrop and are worth attending.

This is a very rare find. I had no idea what a private library was and how few existed until I attended one of the "A-List members only parties." Not that this is some sort of elitist thing at all. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library survives by it's members and donors. If you're looking for something interesting to do, attend an A-List event. Drop in is $10. I've seen everything from karaoke to live electronic music and all shades in between. Artists are always a part of the mix, and I'm still bummed I missed Jim Lee when he stopped in! Besides the A-List, becoming a member of the Library and having access to it's collection is real treat. The concert series is geared towards an "older" crowd, but they often have lunch time concerts which is a nice way to spend your hour away from the office.

I had no idea this place existed a few years ago. A friend had told me about an exhibit in the gallery of the Athenaeum, but when I visited I was blown away by its extensive collection of art, books on art and artists, selection of music and even videos, that if you are member you can check out. The place is pretty amazing. I would say it is a must visit for any artist who needs research material or anyone interested in art. But what I really look forward to are the "A-List" events. Every couple of month, always on a Thursday night, they have an A-list event. It is a gallery show but unlike a lot of the other gallery shows in San Diego the exhibiting artist is there and says a few words about their work and answers questions. They serve complimentary drinks; wine and micro-brewed beer usually, but I have been there when Pravda Vodka or some other premium liquor was a sponsor and they were serving specialty drinks. The best part is it is only $10, unless you are an A-list member; then it is free and you get to bring a guest.

Next time you are wiling away a day in La Jolla, be sure to stop into the Athenaeum. This music and arts library has been around for over 100 years. The Athenaeum's specialties are art and music. There is a huge selection of music CD, sheet music, and books on art and music to check out to members. But the library itself is open to the public, and anyone is welcome to browse the selections for a minutes or an afternoon. I highly recommend spending some time in the space. There is a gallery that hosts several art exhibits each year, specializing in artists from Southern California and Baja Mexico. Their collection of art also has a specialty: Artist Books. This relatively new art form really only came into critics sight in the 1970s. But San Diego is a hub of activity for book artists, and the Athenaeum is one reason. They have a permanent collection of artist books, and they have an exhibit of artist books that is simultaneously on display with the larger art gallery. Throughout the library there are little nooks and each corner seems to hold a surprise discovery. Whether you wander into the art gallery, happen upon the artist books, or discover the children's art books collection, the athenaeum is a delightful place to explore. In the heart of La Jolla, on the corner of Wall St and Girard St, it is a historical delight that is not to be missed. Read more at http://theothersandiego.blogspot.com/search/label/La%20Jolla

I have had the pleasure to work with A-list on an event in 2008. Not only have I worked with the Athenaeum I'm also a member. It's wonderful to see and meet the great people who keep art, music, and literature fresh and valued. From the volunteers to the staff everyone is very knowledgeable, has a true passion for what they do and is more then happy to show you what the Athenaeum has to offer. The A-list events are great to meet a wide variety of great people. Every time I have gone I meet someone new that I'm glad I met. I recommend everyone go to at least one of the Athenaeums A-list events.

Just kidding! This place totally deserves 5 stars, but i wanted to make sure that yelp visitors know that I am not just another friend, who was asked to give the Ath maximum points. I fell in love with the Athenaeum in 2005. I was strolling around La Jolla and sought shelter .. so many high-end boutiques, cafés without restrooms, perishable goods to purchase, and shallow interactions .. the Ath came as a haven. Once you entered, the Ath offers contemporary art to your left. That will nourish your brain for days. A friendly employee at the front desk will help you to find the ideal artsy independant movie on DVD or a classic on VHS. Moreover, they can guide you to their art book selection or children art books or music collection ("La Bohème" - a must-have for your next Italian moment at home). You may also walk in on an art lecture, may it be on art deco furniture, fashion or jewelry. Or a Monday's free concert. But my favorite are the A-List events on Thursday nights, every other month. I get to meet my buddies and have snacks and drinks once I paid the reasonable cover. Expect live music or hands-on art project, a tour or something else that's out of the box. Well, now I am on my way to returm my Ath DVDs and to read my German newspaper in their rotundo. Whenever I lounge in the Ath, I feel like a millionaire who owns a house in La Jolla. And the "servants" are fabulous ..

I was beside myself when I stepped into the Anthenaeum for the first time. I think I gasped out loud...it's absolutely amazing. Overwhelming even....plan on spending a LOT of time there if you have any interest in books, music, art, history, or libraries! I haven't attended any of their events, so this review is just for the library itself: They have an incredible collection focused on arts and music. Everything you can think of...one of my favorite discoveries was this old cabinet that looked like a card catalog system, but the faces of the drawers actually pulled down and inside was sheet music! Of every composer you can think of, spanning the ages. Oh, and the record collection! Holy schnikes. This review would be the longest review ever on yelp if I told you everything i loved about it...just go. You have to be a member to check anything out, but it is very worth hanging around there to enjoy their wares. They also have a sale section in the back where you can buy awesome books for pretty cheap. I scored a book on the Art of the Louvre from the 50's for $1! This is a true gem and we are so lucky to have it in our vicinity. When you go, make an afternoon out of expanding your horizons and go check out the Morrison Hotel gallery (rock-n-roll photography!) just a little ways away. This is the stuff that makes me love La Jolla :)

Excellent little gem. I wandered in here sometime ago and it was just lovely. Interesting well curated selection and very intimate in the heart of the city. I'm a fan of libraries in general and I love that anyone can just come in here. Usually this kind of library kind of kicks you out or doesn't let you in unless you donate money or do something odd. Not so in La Jolla! I've recently moved to the East Coast and they have tons of libraries, few as beautiful as this one, but most of them expect you to pay or become a member even to just come in a look. It's a crime! I've yet to see an event here but I've been back a few times to look for certain art books and see the exhibits since they change rather frequently. I'd give it a 5 star but it didn't knock-my-socks off. It's just adorable and pleasant and always changing!

I was exploring La Jolla as a tourist. I like art and music, but have very little interest in books. So a library probably isn't the best place for me to visit. But, I didn't know what to expect here with so many different comments on Yelp about private functions, concerts, historic house, music library, CD's on loan, and art. It might be all of those things, but just wandering off the streets, it was mainly a place to view art in a classy old building. It only took 15 minutes to see the entire place, but it was free and conveniently located in the busy part of La Jolla. As an added bonus, a skilled violinist was practicing in the rotunda during our visit.

This is such a gem of a place - a music and arts library described as a 'cultural institution.' Such a quiet, beautiful place to relax, sip on tea, look at some art, and to read. The parking situation was great. I went here for the architecture and design - there is a beautiful Spanish Renaissance-style rotunda reading room designed by renowned architect William Templeton Johnson in 1921. The reading room ceilings with wooden planks are very pretty, and the rugs are a nice touch.

Sure, most of the events at the Athenaeum or sponsored by the Athenaeum are more geared toward 40 to 50-year-olds with an affinity towards classical music and other highbrow art forms, but every once in awhile the peeps at the library surprise me. They have pretty hip art shows and an event called "The A List" that is more friendly towards young people. Don't let the name intimidate you--it happens once a month and it's open to anyone with 10 bucks to spare. You'll get to drink free wine and rub elbows with some pretty interesting La Jolla cats.

This place is simply inspirational! I love art, and this small privately owned library encompasses books of every type of artistic medium you can think of. From history, to culture, to music,you name it! I discovered this library with my best friend as we were taking an afternoon stroll through La Jolla. And now everytime we're in the area we always stop by this library. Now you can call me a nerd for loving a library so much, but this place has style. They not only hold books, but they also display different collections of fine art exhibitions. They host events such as music concerts and festivals, but I have yet to attend an event. The annual membership at the library is also around $40 which isn't bad especially if you want to take home some material and brush up on your artistic knowledge.

This place is awesome, I give it 6 stars but it's far from my house... Now head to La Jolla, check it out, sign up and support the local arts...

They have an amazing selection of books on fine art not just to check out but also for purchase. If you have a passion for visual art this library is the best resource for you!

Night owls 41 flavors events!! Music and arts! Dj by song struck! Excellent time! Music and art library hosts events periodically, with local bands, local artists, dj's, juried art exhibition. 82 local artists. Raffles, prizes, drinks, delicious food! Great atmosphere!

I have really mixed feelings about this place. On the one hand, it has a primo collection of art and books about art (and books about unique, spectacular musicians). It is truly a jewel -- a one of a kind institution that offers rare and wonderful opportunities. (Not to mention that the director of their "A-list" program is cool, down to earth, and approachable.) So for that, I'd give 4 or 5 stars. But my (very polite) email requesting more programming on weekends (due to the fact that I have to work) prompted a prissy, grouchy reply from the executive director -- who said that they have PLENTY of weekend programming, thankyouverymuch, and some of it is even in the evenings (who cares that I work until 6 and simply can't make a 6:30pm curtain time?) so if I don't attend their programs I'm clearly not worth accommodating. In my more charitable moments, I chalk this up to the director having a bad day, but I'd still like to give that attitude NEGATIVE stars. Given all of that, I have to conclude that his place clearly has more potential than it is living up to. I know they have probably made their schedules with the independently wealthy and society wives in mind, but I'm neither of those things -- most people aren't. I know that keeping those traditional patrons is important, but there seems to be very little consideration of what the rest of us need. I'd like to think that my "non-traditional patron-ness" doesn't disqualify me from taking the Athenaeum's classes and attending their lectures. And they don't -- but for the few things that I do attend, I simply pay the non-member ticket price. But when they make so little effort to reach out to me or cater to my needs, I don't feel that paying the price (no matter how reasonable) to become a member is appropriate, either. I don't begrudge them their choices, but by the same token they shouldn't be surprised that their actions influence MY choices, too. If you have the luxury of being able to make your own schedule, run, don't walk to the Athenaeum. If you're like most people who have to work, commute, and deal with the humdrummities of the work-a-day world, though, they just don't take you into account, so you might not have much opportunity to enjoy their world-class, unique, wonderful offerings (but by all means, seize whatever opportunities that you can!) To sum up; I'm torn on how to rate this place -- it is both disappointing and fabulous at the same time. So I split the difference and gave it three stars. If they ever become more accessible (though perhaps their inaccessibility gives them some kind of moneyed cachet that they want to maintain?), they'll truly begin to sparkle. And perhaps there is hope -- the A-list is clearly a step in the right direction.

One of my favorite places in San Diego - a beautiful little gem of a building that serves the community well with its exhibits and programming in addition to its library functions.

This is a wonderful arts library that also offers art classes and has a variety of events such as music concerts and new art exhibits as well by local artists. They have a very lively calendar of events here that changes often.

I have only ever been to the library for the AList but have thoroughly enjoyed it each time. It is very pretty and what an amazing idea for a library. Although it is quite grand and elaborate it is also comfortable and relaxed. They have tons of records and I bet I could spend hours pouring over all that vinyl. They also have extensive art books, cd's, movies, etc. Check out the A-List and join the library. It seems to be a great investment for $40 a year.

Culture, culture, culture! That is what you get at The Atheneum. It is one of the few private libraries in the state and the only library / art gallery / concert venue in San Diego. The Atheneum is over a 100 years old, and it in one of the cutest, cozy buildings in the neighborhood. The Atheneum has a nice selection of books to satisfy your intellectual apatite, but my favorite part to the venue is that is a gallery. The Atheneum showcases great and unique art and they put on a helluva a party too. The venue often times hosts exhibition openings that key members of the La Jolla community regularly attend. The Atheneum is in downtown La Jolla, right across the street from Jack's. It is a great place to check out fine art and books, but you don't need to hold a Phd from the New School to enjoy a visit there. The place has got charm and the staff are very friendly. Probably because they get to work in such a cool place that hosts fun events all the time. Who knew Librarians could be such party animals?

Lovely music library filled with sheet music for any type of instrument.

This place is amazing! We hold an annual small event here and the staff is nothing, but gracious to allow our event to be succssful in their space. You can get lost reading titles; can you imagine what happens when you pull out a piece to look over? This is a sweet spot in La Jolla and an easy walk to good food treats. Take a look next time you're in the neighborhood.

Great building, beautiful space, fantastic books, compelling artwork, fun events with high-energy music and dancing... All good things.

Libraries Rule! This place is gorgeous! The staff is helpful, friendly and they know their stacks! We need more libraries in this world with fine arts content. It's a great space for artists to do research on the work of others. I had a blast at their A-list mixer.

The events at the Athenaeum are always so much fun...I am especially fond of the A-list events...great crowd, awesome art and fun music...plus a cocktail or two...always a blast! Hope to see you there!

Athenaeum Library gives u great experiance providing daily joy and relaxation. its great.