Boston Athenaeum

It’s like I fell through a portal and landed in the library of my dreams!!!! A secret garden of literary delights! From the red leather studded door to the artwork, to the rare editions, to the statutes, to the reading book nooks, this place is a nirvana for lovers of words!!!! My favorite place in Boston, hands down! And their slogan “CALLING ALL CURIOS” 🖤🤍📖

If you love art or books or architecture or anything beautiful, come see this amazing library. Think about the big questions of who shepherds culture in our society...or just look at lovely statues and paintings and treasures of literature. Or both!

I took the guided tour of the library and thoroughly enjoyed it. What a wonderful library! If you're driving then try parking in the underground Boston Common Garage. Don't risk street parking and a ticket.

An American treasure. A must visit if you are a history dork, bibliophile, or art connoisseur. An incredible space with an incredible collection. Go first thing in the morning, splurge on the full-day pass and wander the stacks, have a snack, lounge, read, and soak in the Boston skyline. For locals and visitors alike! Then walk through Beacon Hill to find a pint or a nice dinner.

Boston Anthenaeum quiz: Is it a library? Is it a museum? Is it live jazz music venue? Was it a private Boston club? The answer: all of the above. This historical Boston building was a private club, at one time, but it is now fully open to the public. Membership is $500 a year, and it includes private events, for both adults and children, and entrance to special rooms on each floor. THE DEAL: if an expensive membership is not in your budget, definitely visit during their open house events!

What a BEAUTIFUL library! This is the third time I've visited the Athenaeum and first time with a day pass and I am still in awe at the beauty of this place. Definitely worth visiting!

Wow, what a hidden gem! I visit family in Boston all the time but never knew about this place even though I know I've walked by it. The whole place is beautiful and pristine. It was raining on the weekday I visited, but it was so clean and bright inside. And not at all crowded. A kind security officer greeted me and pointed me towards the desk for a ticket. I spoke to a young man who was very friendly and informative. I opted to pay $8 (others have said it cost $10 or $11 for an adult, so maybe it's cheaper on a weekday) for just first floor access instead of something like $40 for the entire place. There are two large rooms up front with some books and artwork. It took about 15-20 minutes to look through everything. There are huge glass windows that overlook a cemetery, and it was just really quaint. Then I realized there was a whole other exhibit room in the back. I believe it's a rotating exhibit. In August 2023 it was a photo exhibit about then and now Boston. It was fantastic. I'll also note that there are plenty of free lockers because you can't bring large book bags. This was wonderful because I was dragging around my luggage. And the bathroom is exquisite. Definitely worth the $8.

Went to the Boston Athenaeum for my boyfriend’s Exeter alumni event. Such a lovely venue as we are both appreciative of the arts, literature, and history. This place has been on our list of Boston places to explore and the reception event was really well done. There was a lot of space for mingling and chatting with the Philips Exeter alums. After a speech about what Exeter has in store for the future, there was a buffet-style dinner. There was a Mediterranean station and dumpling station for dinner as well as desserts, drinks and hors d'oeuvres such as tuna poke, Peking duck wraps, etc… We will most definitely be back to see the other floors and exhibits soon.

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 private club, but is now open to the public, for a membership fee of $500 a year. THE DEAL: if membership isn't in your budget, definitely visit during an open house!

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 floors of book stacks were implemented within a 5 story building in 1913, because the Athenaeum has a rule that they do not discard books. Quite an amazing place.

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 doors and a grand foyer. Inside you will see balconies providing access to the volumes. Ticket area is just inside the doors and we got the basic entry just to check out the building (main floor) and the art it holds. Sculptures, paintings, seasonal local art exhibits. So much to see. I found a mini Boston Athenaeum book nook hidden amongst the volumes.

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 museums, and the rooms are large and varied. There are quiet spaces, children's spaces, rentable meeting rooms, cozy fireside spaces, anything you could wish for for laptop work and reading. All are curated beautifully, and kept impeccably clean and fresh. Needless to say the place is filled with books, but also includes amazing art and sculptures. They do have modern works (both art and books) but the majority are historic. Modern amenities like outlets, clean toilets and kitchens/kitchenettes are available. Check out the Drum, there are floors and floors of books if you peek through the cracks. I wish I could bottle the scent. Also check out the balcony overlooking the cemetery on the 5th floor. Amazing space!!

This place is pretty cute! It was just smaller than I expected and an exhibit was closed which made it even smaller. Still has charm and would be a nice place to get work done if you're cool with the $8 entrance fee.

Went to the Boston Athenaeum for my boyfriend's Exeter alumni event. Such a lovely venue as we are both appreciative of the arts, literature, and history. This place has been on our list of Boston places to explore and the reception event was really well done. There was a lot of space for mingling and chatting with the Philips Exeter alums. After a speech about what Exeter has in store for the future, there was a buffet-style dinner. There was a Mediterranean station and dumpling station for dinner as well as desserts, drinks and hors d'oeuvres such as tuna poke, Peking duck wraps, etc... We will most definitely be back to see the other floors and exhibits soon.

Lovely building, but it just isn't reasonably priced. My child had been attending a children's book group there--which he really enjoyed--once per month for the price of a one-day membership pass. I thought this reasonable since it runs only one hour and is mostly just a discussion. But after three sessions, we were suddenly told we'd have to pay the annual membership fee for my child to participate going forward. This would have cost us $550 for attending at best 8 activities per year (so we'd be paying $550 for 8 hours, maybe even less, for my son to attend this one children's activity), which sadly we couldn't justify. My child was really disappointed, as he'd gotten to really look forward to the discussions, and had made a couple of friends there. We felt rather blindsided. I wish they could've offered the activity at a price that makes sense for families. We would've gladly paid an adult day membership price of $40 for each activity my child could attend, which is still pricier per hour than most kids' activities we've done in the city, but $550? It was a moot point though, as we were not offered any alternative solution to make it work for our needs. Maybe membership makes sense for some families, but I think the Athenaeum is not accessible to most families living in the city. The Copley Library is a more impressive building, with children's programs, books aplenty, a beautiful courtyard with summer concerts, art, gorgeous architecture, a more welcoming vibe...and it's all free!

I always enjoy my time at the library, it's a total breeze for me. I could find almost all the books I was looking for. When it is not available, the library system allows me to request it online. This is a modern site with clean decor, computers, desks for research, and a maker space. The staff is helpful and easy to talk to if you have a problem. Everyone has their own little corner and everyone seems to love and enjoy what they are doing. They made me feel welcome and helped me with all they could.

Yesterday, I had my first experience at the Boston Athenæum. From beginning to end the experience was exhilarating. Clyde, our docent, was knowledgeable, fun. He shared the history of the architecture, paintings, books and furniture. It is one of the best kept secrets in Boston. It should be at the top of the tourist's to do list. It is true that for many years it was an exclusive club for wealthy white men; however, today anyone can become a member. There are important stories, paintings , and stacks of books that lie within the halls and the floors of the Athenæum. My immediate impression was a civility from a time gone by. I plan to visit again, and am hopeful that Clyde will be our docent.

For some time I have wondered what this place was like so couple weeks ago my friend and I decided to check it out. After looking online, I Learned that non-members needed to book a tour in order to see most of the building. So we booked two tickets for an architectural tour, which started at noon. Because of the traffic downtown, we decided to take the MBTA into town. Imagine our dismay when the train sat at the station for 45 minutes. We ended up at the museum 15 minutes late. We explained what had happened and she seem to know about the issue. The woman was very nice but when I asked if we could still join the tour she said "well it has already left and I wouldn't know where to find it, so no, you can't join but you can look around the first floor. I have to say I was a little disappointed given that most tours follow a very set path. We did look around the first floor and we enjoyed it but I would've liked to see the rest of the building and I thought it was too bad that we couldn't join in this circumstance. The artwork is nice and the place is very serene so I give them points for that.

Really beautiful building, feels like the libraries from beauty and the beast! Such a peaceful place to study, but I wish they would incorporate some more comfortable/newer seating. The nooks on the 5th floor are so lovely but the tables are tiny and hard to fit your legs under. Same with the comfy chairs, for the price of a yearly membership I wish they could update some of the chairs/put them in spots with some more natural lighting. Otherwise so peaceful and lovely. Staff are so kind and clearly love the place.

In all of my years living in Boston and Cambridge, I had never been here, until today. I cannot believe what I was missing out on. This is one of if not the most beautiful building(s) in the city. The art, the books, the lovely areas to work or sit in peace are breathtaking. I was lucky to come during their free open house. If you are not a member, admission is typically $10 and there are certain areas you won't be able to go. They also do one Saturday a month for free, but again, you can only go to certain areas. The open house though is where you can explore even the members only areas. Either way, it is worth it to experience the Athaeneum and it's history and beauty. It is one of my favorite places in the city now. Do yourself a favor and visit. You will be blown away.

My girlfriend and I stumbled across the Athenaeum on the way back to the Omni Parker during a week in Boston. This place is a little hidden gem in a city with a lot of touristy things to do. We got there late in the day, close to closing, and were given a great tour by the staff. We really enjoyed the sculptures, art work, and ambience upstairs (like stepping back in time), as well as the rows and rows of historic books. Really an interesting place and we will come back on our next visit and take our time visiting.

I enjoyed my visit to the Athenaeum and could easily see myself spending hours at this place simply reading, looking out the window, or checking out the different art. That being said, I think my visit was much more enjoyable because I did not pay somewhat high admission fee since I visited on its free day. Just an FYI: The first floor of Athenaeum is FREE for visitors on the SECOND Saturday of every month. Before you enter, you will be asked to check in at the front desk and use your phone to scan a QR code and give your contact info. If you're like me with a very old and crappy phone without a QR scanner, the front desk person will be more than happy to take your info themselves. You'll be given a wristband and asked to put your bags and other things (camera+pictures are okay, but no flash) in a locker. The Athenaeum isn't too big, but that doesn't mean there aren't things to see. If you're a bibliophile, definitely check it out & make sure to go on the free admission day :)

The library was founded in the 1800s. This place is not only a library, but also a container of American history, especially the American Revolution. I wish there was a guide that walked me through every sculpture, painting, and gravestone in the adjacent burial ground. You must check in your bags. Put your dollar bill in a box if you want to see the gallery. Or you can enjoy the free facilities in the library on the ground floor. Only members can have access to the elevator and the rest of the old books. Besides the art and book collections from the early 19th century, the library has updated many new art, history, and political science books. These modern books are right at the central room closed to the entrance. The building is truly gorgeous. A beautiful, hidden spot in a historical area.

Hidden Gem! This gorgeous library if are a library and book lover. The only downside is that if you want to get accesses to the fifth floor (the prettiest room) you have booked a tour in advance. I wish they would it told me before I purchased a ticket.

It's not that expensive to join and you get to enjoy one of the hidden treasure of Boston. The building itself is great and the balcony on the 5th floor commands a excellent great view (and you can have your lunch there). There's even a resident red tail hawk. The book collection is truly amazing as is the arts collection. I think my favorite room in the whole building is the children's library- with the "solar system" light and a great view of the Granary Burying Ground (kinda ironic ?). And as my friend said... very "Harry Potter'ish" Membership fee is really not that dear and worth every penny...

I almost missed my flight back to California because I went on this tour right before I was supposed to be at the airport. Whooppppps. It was SOOOO worth it though (probably because I didn't actually miss it). If you love books/libraries/history, you're going to love this place. It's beautifully designed and there's just so much history to it and books and artifacts. It's just an amazing place. If you're a member, you're allowed to freely explore the place, but definitely go on the tour so you can get a feel of why each area is designed the way it is. If you're a non-member, this is the only way to explore outside of the first floor of the museum. There are five stories and each one seems to have a story to tell. I won't spoil what's on the tour, you'll just have to go see for yourself! :D Tours are Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3PM. Only 8 people are allowed on each tour, so be sure to call in and reserve your spot. I think this is a must see if you're in Boston.

Probably the most beautiful spot in Boston for the bibliophile. It is truly gorgeous, and a total secret gem. This well stocked private library has art, books and beautiful views. This place is truly for the love of books. It's a great deal to become a member and if I still lived in Boston I would join in a heartbeat.

If I could give this place zero or negative stars I would. What a disappointment. This place is essentially for rich, white folks & it's so pretentious I nearly threw up in my mouth. I can't believe people actually pay to go in to this place, let alone pay membership. This place is ridiculous, you can't even bring your bag/pocketbook in, there are lockers because you might bump it on something. Seriously, it's books, that's what they have in here, books & a few paintings on the wall. You can't go to certain floors unless you're a member either. This place should not even exist, complete waste of time & money. Just go to a real museum or go to the Boston Public Library which is much nicer & has more stuff to see & do.

I was happy to have stopped by here because it was very nice and open until 8 pm on a Sunday night, however, it wasn't anything that took a long time since the "free" part is only confined to the first floor and apparently you weren't supposed to take pictures (eek!) You have to pay a membership fee of $115 a year in order to access the other floors. I thought the building was very pretty looking and the paintings inside were incredible because you were walking through the history of some of the most brilliant men whom became the foundation of the US. But the academia quickly wore off after I left the building even though I extensively looked and could only spend about 20 minutes there. I did find a nice Children's reading room on the first floor, which was free, which had some neat decor and toys so it seemed like a good place to spend a nice weekend afternoon with your kids.

I'm reviewing the Athenaeum as an out-of-town visitor. I walked the Freedom Trail and on my way back stopped by the Athenaeum because I'm a library fiend and book lover, and I had heard it was simply amazing. A private, elusive library with red doors and an address of "10 1/2"...it just has that je ne sais quoi. The air is thick with intellectualism, fine art, history, and culture. As a non-member, I knew that I would only have access to the first floor, but I still wanted to look around. Unfortunately, they were setting up for an event in one of the rooms so what I was able to see was limited even further. They do offer public tours twice a week, but my schedule didn't align with the tour time so I was pretty much out of luck. When I come back to Boston I am definitely taking the tour so I can see the entire building! I headed over to the public library to satisfy my library craving--it certainly didn't disappoint, but it was no Athenaeum.

If you want to further explore Boston away from the usual tourist spots, this is a place some people can enjoy. The public viewing for this is basically 2 rooms on the first floor. Members are the only ones allowed on the rest of the premises. However, public viewing does give you access to an incredibly beautiful section of their library. I enjoyed a rainy day here!

A Night at the Athenaeum. Boston, MA. If you are like me, you've been intrigued by this exclusive library behind the Fox 25 studios and next to the State House. As the Boston Athenaeum Library's website states: "The Boston Athenæum is one of the oldest and most distinguished independent libraries and cultural institutions in the United States. It was founded in 1807. It grew out of a slightly earlier organization known as the Anthology Society which had been formed in 1805 by a group of Bostonians with the primary purpose of producing a magazine that they called The Monthly Anthology and Boston Review. In now creating the Boston Athenæum, their purpose was to form "an establishment similar to that of the Athenæum and Lyceum of Liverpool in Great Britain...The new Athenaeum flourished in culture-starved Boston and, as it voraciously acquired books, art, and artifacts, it grew rapidly...For nearly half a century the Athenæum was the unchallenged center of intellectual life in Boston, and by 1851 had become one of the largest libraries in the United States." This past Friday, thanks to Suffolk University's Dean Reception, I got to spend some time on the first floor of the library. After talking briefly to Paula, the director of the library, I found out that you do not need to be a part of a special group to join...you just have to pay a $150 yearly fee. If I was residing in Boston, and frequented the library, and who are we kidding, had money, I think I would actually consider joining. The first floor was a perfect location for a gathering like ours. There was a wonderful feeling of being in an old mansion or in the foyer of somebody's home. There were magnificent statues and books along the walls. While everyone else mingled I decided to walk around and check out the rooms. There were some great photographs in one room and a painting of John Singleton Copley in another. By around 7pm I found a book about Latvia and tourism and decided to sit in one of the red leather chairs and get swept up into feeling like I was back home. So...let's review.. 1. If you are interested in at least taking a walk through the library, you can take a tour the first Monday of every month from 6pm-7pm. There is no fee and you should register a week before. 2. If you are simply looking for a unique experience, you can also register for afternoon tea, twice a month on Wednesdays. It does seem like you do need to know a member in order to participate in this activity however. 3. On to a new topic...next time I plan on reviewing the lululemon store in Copley...they are holding free yoga sessions every Sunday this November. Until the next review... ...and check out my blog for photos!

If you are not a member, forget about having a desk to read or study, what kind of library doesn't offer desks for visitors ? . Definitely not worth the $10 they make you pay .

The Boston Athenaeum is a must see for locals and visitors alike. It is a really interesting place to check out that is a little off the beaten path. It is only about a block away from the state house almost right on the freedom trail so it is an easy attraction to add to your list! There are only a few rooms open to non-members so it is not a hugely time consuming item to add to your list. It is a beautiful place to visit and tons of history. There are lockers avalible to check items and no food/drink (even water) is allowed inside the library. The restrooms are very clean. Easily accessible to the T from either Park or Government Center.

The most beautiful place in Boston. Best study spot.

I was so impressed with the beauty of this place, the collection of books and periodicals, and the art. I highly recommend getting a tour or going to an open house. I loved it so much that I became a member. Can't wait to see the offerings, spend a morning on the terrace reading, get cozy in a leather chair on a winters day, or generally enjoy the views from the giant, beautiful windows.

The annual membership fee for an individual is $300, and a family membership is a little more. Apart from the fee, there are no requirements for membership; you don't have to be a Mayflower descendant or a graduate of an Ivy League college. $300 is not chicken feed, but it's not so high as to make membership really exclusive. You can spend that much a year on magazine subscritions plus cable plus internet. A single trip to Fenway Park with the whole family can cost as much or more. And for $300, you get borrowing privileges to one of the finest private book collections in existence, as well as access to the lovely bullding, a place of infinite charm. I would add that the staff are friendly and helpful.

I think I died and went to history teacher heaven. History teacher heaven with a Harry Potter style. .... and with afternoon tea as well!! Yes, you have to be a member or a guest to get in ($115 a year... ouch) but screw money... other things are more important like: 1. A children's library with lights on the ceiling arranged like the solar system 2. Insane maahoosive Dutch grandfather clocks that would kill you if they fell 3. A book bound in human skin! (how gangster is that?) 4. Meeting people at the address "ten and a half" Beacon St. 5. Over-41s pay twice the price to join... haha.. suck it Grandpa! 6. Being able to take afternoon tea, relax with a book or work with the free wifi all whilst looking down on the plebian tourists wondering the burial ground below. Seriously, if I was to stay in Boston forever and have a work-from-wifi job I'd join and I'd live here. Me and the 30 or so 'regulars' who are all ancient stereotypes of intellectuals with beards and stuff (the women too). But until then, I have to make do with kind offers from Jennie W to sneak Hana and Me into the twice-monthly afternoon tea service so we can review it on our tea blog. A full grown-up review with pictures and stuff for the afternoon tea is at www.bostonteacup.com courtesy of Hana T, me and the cool staff at the Ath - the insane boffin posse. It's the last afternoon tea review left in Boston. 11 done, none left! ^_^ and ;_; But if you really want to know about the tea, then have these snippets... It's $20 (cheapest in town), it's a fun buffet where you jostle against pensioners to get the best of the uniquely themed food items that have been prepared especially. You can pig out to your hearts content on scones and things like Madeira Hot Chocolate from a 300-year old Spanish recipe. And there's a bottle of sherry to help yourself too. !!!!! So for review 500 I'm begging you to visit and hopefully join the Athenaeum. It's Boston's own Hogwarts full of eccentrics and I love it to bits.

Magic Happens when you open a book -- But even more magical when you're opening it here. I have been a member here over the past year and have had a delightful time when I am in town. There are regular events, interesting speakers, exhibitions, and frequent updates offered by the diligent staff. Though the visiting space is limited (I can tell you the other floors are enchanting in the most romantic way). The rooms you can work/study/write in have sweeping ceilings and such a rich historical feel. Some of the floors offer a cozy atmosphere with incredible views. There is a decadent little terrace that gets an incredible amount of sun in the summer (you can bring a friend here for conversation, but in most of the other rooms talking + cellular phone conversations are not allowed. (This is my personal favorite, I love turning off my phone when I come here) More than anything I have enjoyed looking through all of the different book titles. There is such a wide range of old and new. Some of the titles in the collection in theory would have disintegrated by now if it weren't for the love and care that the people working here have had over the years. Posting a bad/mediocre review as a visitor is in poor taste. You really do not fully experience the Anthenaeum until you have participated in events and frequented the entire place. The amount of money it takes to run a private establishment as such is enormous. The membership fees are nominal when you think about how much it actually costs to keep the lights on and pay people to work here. It really has been such a blessing to be able to contribute along with other people who feel the same way. It has been an amazing year and I greatly look forward to each visit and am grateful that a beautiful place such as this exists. Thank you Boston Athenaeum staff for all of your hard work, and thank you wonderful patrons, and volunteers for continuing to support such a wonderful establishment. I am so honored to have been able to experience all of your gifts. Date Rating: 10 (incredibly romantic and unique!) Pick up Scale: 8 (events are full of like minded interesting people from all walks of life) Strong Suggestion: Join, and support + encourage places like this to exist.

Wow. If every city was as blessed as Boston they would have an Athenaeum. I've been here a number of times in the last 15 years and am still awed every time I come in here to so some research. This is a gem that people should know more about and that every Bostonian should visit at least a few times in their lives or careers. First up...the book collection features selections specializing in American history, 19th century titles, New England history, state and local topics, and fine arts. Researchers can take advantage of these subject areas as well as a huge collection of periodicals and special collection materials. Special Collections demands an entry of its own, for the Athenaeum's holdings are among the finest in the United States. They feature early Boston newspapers, Confederate States imprints, books from a number of people associated with 18th and 19th century Boston, most notably Henry Knox and George Washington, a substantial collection of first editions, and works printed in Native American languages. Absolutely breathtaking! In addition the library holds a huge manuscript collection that ranks with the finest in the Boston area. Manuscripts are especially strong in the fields of fine arts and literature. Staff is incredibly knowledgable about the holdings in Special Collections and especially helpful to beginning researchers. A library like this needs a home that reflects its greatness and the Athenaeum is perfectly appropriate for its collections and its setting on Beacon Hill. Behind its forboding facade its soberly arranged rooms exhibit fine paintings and sculpture in soberly arranged and appointed rooms that add the right amount of gravitas to such an august institution. The word 'breathtaking,' aptly begins to describe the Athenaeum's building. For anyone living in the Boston area or who has an appreciation for New England history and culture the Athenaeum is an absolute treasure. Anyone can become a member and the library offers a number of special events for members and guests. It's a great place, a great resource, and one of the things that makes living in Boston something special.

The Boston Athenaeum is the sacred temple of books in the Western hemisphere. It can be compared to Trinity, or Waldsassen Abbey, or the Handelingenkamer. One of the finest libraries in the world. The Athenaeum hosts a range of cultural exhibitions, lectures and small concerts in addition to its function as a library. Overlooking the Granary Public Burying ground and just a few steps from the Massachusetts State House, the Athenaeum is located in the heart of old Boston. I have been a member of the Athenaeum for many, many years, but I still find hidden treasures among its holdings and new experiences. The workshop in the basement is devoted to the maintenance and restoration of old books, the memories of our people. The quiet deck in the back on the top floor is a place of absolute solitude where I can relax and exist alone at the pinnacle of civilization.

My single favorite address in Boston. An important cultural center for over 200 years. Eurocentric, esp. Anglophiliactic, yes, but great collections of books, prints, artwork, interesting lectures, an art gallery; receptions (how much cheese ground into the oriental rugs over the years?). Lots of previous members left money, furnishings and good stuff and the trustees have nurtured these investments. They also have funds to purchase new books and other good things. They even have a fresh flower fund. What's not to like!?

I figure that I've got to write 2 different Athenaeum reviews for 2 different audiences. First those who want to view its architecture and art and, second, those interested in the library. Gallery Visitors: Admission to the first floor gallery space is free during the normal Monday-through-Saturday hours. There's has a modest permanent selection of art and, usually, a small gallery of changing exhibits. You see, the Athenaeum gave away its best art pieces to Boston's Museum of Fine Arts well over a century ago. But its the upper floors that are truly stunningly beautiful, a National Landmark. For access you'll need to join a free tour offered on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons at 3PM. And, you'll need to reserve your tour spot in advance or likely face disappointment. But its well worth it. When major motion pictures want to shot a Harvard Library scene, they do so here. See the reading rooms and you'll understand why. Library Patrons Founded in 1807 as a private library and remains so today. I have been a member and used its very helpful library staff. Past members in the past have boasted Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne. It's American literature collection rivals greats, like Boston Public Library's (although, tragically, BPL's rare book collection is not well cared for and is slowly disintegrating on its shelves).

I love this library and hope someday to be a member. This is a little unknown location that you should definitely take visitors that like historical properties. Mimicking Megan, this is the oldest library in the country. As a non-member you can come to this library and walk around most of the first floor. The children's section is so adorable, quaint, and with a beautiful view of the historical Sam Adams cemetery, it made me want to be a kid again. The library also always has a rotating collection of art. The day I went it was a unique exhibit of photography. I can't wait until I am a member, just waiting until I have the money for the dues. They have social events that look, from peering through the windows, like a lot of fun. Anyway, definitely stop in here for a nice self-guided tour of a historical library!

Recommend visiting only as a tourist or as a Boston resident. I don't believe membership is affordable or viable for most people especially with all of these extra fees. As a member for over 10 (ten) years I can honestly say this is a lovely private library, but I think there are issues with affordability and perhaps this is tied to its exclusivity. The library has many impressive collections and holdings, but its membership prices for people over 45 years, are quite high for either single or family memberships. Membership fees no longer include the majority of the concerts, lectures, and special events -- to attend -- its members are charged extra fees. Very few events are free for members and included in this expensive membership fee. Also for events you are required to buy tickets online and I've continually had trouble and heard from some other members as well about the functionality of this online/events registration system. The library said it would address the events registration issue but sadly it has not, I just was unable to register and buy tickets for a special lecture event, there was no tech support, and I was given a polite but insufficient apology -- a full day later after the event sold out in 15 minutes. And so, I don't believe the membership benefits are worth the cost of belonging going forward. To note, when I joined they required references as well as part of the application process. As a visitor, you will be restricted to the first floor, you must check in with security, and the gallery entrance fee right now (2016) is $5. If there are tours available usually they start in the lobby/near the security desk. Sometimes the gallery shows are interesting from the library's collections/archives, but over the years the most successful special gallery show was the Gorey show -- just my opinion nothing has compared to it, and the general public were welcomed to see it as long as they paid the gallery entry fee. The library recently focused on a lobby renovation so people can leave their bags in lockers, rather than have to wait to check/retrieve them. Scholars will find the library valuable but most will be academics or assisted by monetary fellowships, etc. Appointments can be made for the free tours, and/or to see special collection items, etc.

After seeing the movie Beauty and the Beast as a young child, I knew my perfect library needed to include tasteful art, many huge windows, sumptuous furnishings, comfy chairs for reading, and a plethora of books. I'm happy to report that my dream was more than fulfilled at the Boston Athenaeum. As one of the oldest independent libraries in the United States, this beautiful building has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s and boasts a fine collection of rare books. Free public tours are offered two days a week with advance reservations, and I only needed to reserve my spot a week beforehand. The docent in my tour group was both knowledgeable and engaging, discussing the institution's development, pointing out significant pieces of art, and sharing fun facts. The furnishings themselves were beautiful; it was almost as if I had been transported back in time to a famous dignitary's residence. Other notables include an expansive view of the Granary Public Burying ground outside, a delightful children's nook and youth library, and a book conservation laboratory. By the way, although the library is membership only, anyone can make an appointment with a rare book and spend the day examining it in a special room. Would highly recommend this place for any literary/history aficionado!

This review is for the Boston Athenaeum as a tourist destination. They give tours to non members on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3pm for free. You just have to call ahead and make a reservation. You get to see all the floors in one way or another. The architecture of the building is so beautiful. The 5th floor reading room is amazing. Their art collection is great and I loved how it was all mixed in with the books. Their book collection is breathtaking as well. They take you into the drum which is basically 10 stories (maybe more?) of stacks of books. The walkways are glass paths and if you look down you are looking at stories and stories of books. It's amazing. The women who led the tour was so knowledgable. Probably one of my favorite tours I've taken in Boston.

its history, collection, charm, has it all. Has a quiet kids reading room nobody knows about. My children also enjoy hiding in the stacks. A great way to spend a Sat. afternoon.

The Athenaeum just exudes stuff, old school Brahmin Boston. To their credit, they know it and are trying to broaden their horizons and get some more younger members. They have a wide range of speakers come in (from cookbook authors to experts on the BP spill in the Gulf) as well as having beer and wine tastings. They are currently showing an excellent exhibit of Edward Gorey's work that really should not be missed.

We joined a couple years ago and it's still one of my favorite things about Boston. It was our refuge during a brief wintery period of unemployment--something to get us out of the tiny apartment, a place to do serious work besides the local Starbucks, sunlight and great views even on dreary days. As a grad student, my husband used the fifth floor reading room weekly. Now that I have a new baby, I'm realizing a whole new wonderful level: the children's library! Two beautiful sunlight rooms absolutely filled with books for all ages, a dedicated children's librarian, regularly weekly story times. Additionally, as "younger' members (below 42, I think) we try to make it to all the young member receptions. These are a great chance to eat tons of cheese and chat up the most eclectic and bookish collection of Bostonians I have yet to encounter. If you live in Beacon Hill: a must.

This library was a let down for us. We saw the library from the outside and were so excited to see all the rooms and art inside. When we entered the museum we paid $10 to see 3 rooms total. All other floors and most rooms on the first floor are for members only. It's presented as a location for tourists and book enthusiasts but it's not. It's for members. If you're looking for a library-lovers experience, you may want to skip this one.

I went here vacation week with the kids because of the Edward Gorey Exhibit (fun!). As a life long resident of the area, I have never been here but it was lovely. Since we were not members, we stayed only in the designated areas and we found a comfortable spot that faced the Grainery (sp?). The four adults sat while the three kids "chased" our friend's 2 year old - straight into the kid's room - how nice. For a place that seems like it should be fuddy-duddy, it was charming. I wished I had the money to be a member.

It was very exciting to go to the Boston Athenaeum but to get to all the floors you have to have a special holders pass, it was still nice regardless.

Granted the Boston Athenauem appears a bit intimidating from the outside but this is one of the coolest spaces in Boston if you are looking for a quiet place to read. The collection is absolutely awesome with five floors of books, wonderful art and views of the city that you will not find easily. For those under 40 the cost is nominal. Even for those over 40, a family can join for under $300. With access to a world class collection, private space that is amazing; this is an institution that all Bostonian should consider joining.

Not a member of this august institution but it drips in the money, history, and legacy of Old Boston. You can still get a feel for the Yankee merchants and Brahmin's that built and support the place. You can almost smell them in the dusty bindings and plaster walls. The spaces on the ground floor showcase some of the institution's master works. The public spaces are very grand and the staff are helpful. We came here to view a temporary exhibit featuring the work of the illustrator and eccentric wordsmith Edward Gorey. The gallery space is small but we enjoyed the show. If I lived closer to Boston I'd consider joining. Still, we are lucky to have such a wonderful place in our midst.

I love this building with all of my being. The Boston Athenaeum is a 19th century private library. You need to pay $115/year ($230 if you're over 40) to join, but it's well worth it. They have a really excellent selection of books, most of which can be checked out. Their cataloging system is pretty confusing, including LoC and Cutter, but that actually heightens the experience, as you can't help but get lost in the shelves. Particularly fun is the "drum" - a multiple story storage room that smells of old books and must. Wander around inside it and discover subjects you had no idea you were interested in. The Athenaeum also has a number of reading spaces with comfy chairs. Surround yourself with books, views, or other readers, and discover new corners all the time. Pack a lunch during the warm months and have your sandwich and tea out on the balcony, overseeing Granary Burying Ground and Downtown. This is not to mention all of the wonderful reading groups and public lectures held here on a regular basis. Join up and enjoy!

We wanted to attend a lecture by the author and historian Anthony Mitchell Sammarco on the history of Jordan Marsh. Unfortunately, we were turned away because we are not members. We were not even asked if we wanted to become members or invited to pay for just the lecture.This disrespectful treatment is not a very smart way to attract new members. It is unlikely we will ever return or even consider membership. Where was the welcoming Boston spirit we have come to know and love?