Providence Athenaeum

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The Providence Athenæum (founded 1836) is an independent, member-supported library located on Providence’s historic Benefit Street. One of the oldest cultural institutions in Rhode Island, the Athenæum has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and engaged community members for almost 200 years, including Edgar Allan Poe, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Bronson Alcott, and Charlotte Perkins Gilman. The collections contain more than 175,000 items, including circulating materials, rare and beautiful volumes, and 19th-century artwork. Visitors are welcome to take one of three self-guided tours to learn more about the Athenæum's history, building and collections. Suggested donation: $5.The Providence Athenæum (founded 1836) is an independent, member-supported library located on Providence’s historic Benefit Street. One of the oldest cultural institutions in Rhode Island, the Athenæum has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and engaged community members for almost 200 years, including Edgar Allan Poe, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Bronson Alcott, and Charlotte Perkins Gilman. The collections contain more than 175,000 items, including circulating materials, rare and beautiful volumes, and 19th-century artwork. Visitors are welcome to take one of three self-guided tours to learn more about the Athenæum's history, building and collections. Suggested donation: $5.