Reviews of Boston Athenæum (Library)

Natty Hoffman

This is a beautiful, historic institution that is nevertheless antiquated, elitist and limits its engagement with the general public. It is only fully open to rich people, who are willing to shell out upwards of $300 per year for membership. My 2-year old boy really wanted to visit the children's library, and was thrown out of the building without even being able to use the restroom (they also didn't allow us to pay the $10 daily fee, which we would have gladly paid). It is truly a shame, because places like this should be celebrated by being open to all who can enjoy and appreciate it responsibly. I wouldn't be surprised if their membership numbers are struggling and do not reflect the demographics of the current residents of Boston.

Marie Spradlin

We were late getting downtown and missed our tour, but the art on display had some great pieces! If I lived in the area, I would definitely look into membership.

Jeffrey Dufresne

You can NOT get in on Monday unless you're a member. That was a very long disappointing trip

Tom Finn

Become a member, it is totally worthwhile. Amazing library with a dedicated, and brilliant staff.

Sharon Rozario

Wandering the streets of Boston on a beautiful sunny day in May, I came upon these grandiose doors that made me stop and stare for a few minutes. I’m a dilettante when it comes to appreciating great architecture, but I took a picture of the entrance and then noticed a few people walking out of the building. My curiosity got the best of me and I entered. You are welcomed into a foyer that’s entirely floored with white marble. As a visitor you will need to present ID and you can get access to a personal locker to store your belongings before you roam through the wonderful space. Its quiet, silent enough to get into a good head space. There are cozy reading nooks that allow you to lounge with your book of choice. The environment is inviting, the staff are all friendly, and I can without shame admit that I spent an hour and a half in there just shuffling between the shelves. There are tours of the facility which you can book online along with viewing the art work on display. The Athenaeum is a bibliophile’s dream space! I personally think that this library tops the New York Public Library, don’t hate. I say this simply because the intimacy of the space is observed, and the energy of a library just vibrates through the space. That sense of calm. I am glad I stumbled upon this gem of a place and make it a point to note the Athenaeum to friends who visit Boston as well. Thank you, Boston, for preserving buildings and spaces such as this.

Ryan

Cool place. Not a big museum but it is a cool space

Victoria Roxborough

Cool

Stella Plato

The Boston Athenaeum is a great spot for visitors and locals! There are only a few rooms open to the public so it won't take long to check out this beautiful library. It is full of history and a wonderful peaceful place to spend a little time. It is located close to the T and freedom trail right in downtown Boston.

Liam D

You don't get access to anything but the main hall. Useless. All the interesting rooms are locked for members only.

Santiago Caicedo

Great library. The rooms are lovely, rich in history, curious statues, incredible book collection, engaging and supportive staff - and the views. Don’t forget to bring your tote bag, otherwise they will give you a non-reusable bag for you belongings (AKA plastic bags). Props for letting your patrons bring covered containers. Thinking about getting a membership? Signup right way!

Sandy Crossman

This library is well worth a year's membership. Wether going for a quick stroll through featured artists or to do research for your next novel there are always places to relax. Right in the center of town!

Hannah Lobban

As others have said, don't bother going unless you do the tour (which wasn't available) or have a membership. Otherwise, you are only allowed on the first floor. Not even the whole first floor, but just 2 rooms, which you'd be better off going to the Boston public library. They also have a few statues and paintings and quiet reading areas.

Vin Daily

My family, in one way shape or form, have been proprietors here for 6 generations or so... an oasis/peaceful retreat.

Alec Dixon

Great place very nice books! The accounting department runs so smoothly, I have never seen a smoother department. Would recommend.

William Stinson

I have been a member for many years, and the athenaeum is an incredible place, with books, from George Washington's Private library, all the way to children's books. The records are so fascinating.

Justin Sofia

Best place on Earth. Negative reviews are from people who don’t get it. The Athenaeum is not a public space, it is a space for its members (and you should consider becoming one!). It is a sanctuary of learning and art in the center of a bustling city. It is a watering hole for your mind. The $10 admission to see the first floor is barely worth it - instead, come see one of the Art/Architecture tours and you’ll be able to see the whole place- then you’ll understand more why people love this place, and you’ll know if it’s right for you.

Heidi Ritter

I dream of the day I could live in this beautiful city and visit this special place often! We took advantage of the late Tuesday opening today, and unfortunately missed the last tour. But the staff is very kind and helpful, and full of helpful information! Thank you to Fritz, Molly, and the front desk crew for making our visit extra special. What a gorgeous place!!

Lily Fang

A lovely spot with lots of history and cool books! Would only recommend going for a tour as a non-member, however. Otherwise, rooms are super limited and you can't even see the nicer parts of the athenaeum (namely, the 5th floor reading room). They have free visits every second Saturday of the month, and tours are only $2 each, so would highly recommend going then. Tours are an hour long and I found ours engaging and interesting.

Angelina Nguyen

I came here as a visitor. It’s not worth $10. You’re limited to a few ordinary rooms on the first floor. It took less than 5 minutes to see the whole floor.

Clinton Nguyen

I prefer the Boston Central Library, as for this one is quite small. Especially considering the public spaces are limited due to the rest being 'member's' only rooms. It was mediocre at best.

Nancy Nazzaro

Way too strict - policies are unreasonable and are also inconsistently enforced.

Gloria Beachy

What an amazing place! Loved the tour. One thing we didn't love though was the only tour was at 3:00. We are now in rush hour traffic going home to NH! Not fun! Can't there be earlier times?

John Pappas

Incredible place to go...

Jacob Mulligan

Worth a visit as a tourist and the membership as a local.

Quentin Marques

(Translated by Google) You will not have access to the most beautiful pieces of the library with the $ 10 ticket. Only members and guided tours can access it! (Original) Vous n'aurez pas accès aux plus belles pièces de la bibliothèque avec le ticket de $10. Seuls les membres et visites guidées peuvent y avoir accès !

Fritz Holznagel

I'm a member. It's truly an amazing place. A good spot to sit in a comfortable chair and ponder your place in the timeline of American history.

Bp Pb

The tour is something to do - it gets you access to areas that normally you wouldn't. However - it was called N architectural tour, but it was more of a book tour - not sure if that was only because of the guide we had.

Kaitlin M

This library is such a gem. From the red leather door at 10 1/2 Beacon St. (how Harry Potter is that?) to the amazing collection of art to the beautiful rooms, wonderful art collection, and truly great line up of events, this place is so worth the yearly subscription cost ($200ish). I live in Back Bay in a tiny apartment. Joining the Athenaeum gives me a space to relax and enjoy a good book and feel like I'm at home. The selection of books is wonderful--and I get books I've reserved much more quickly than at the public library (though I still love the BPL!). The people who work there are lovely. If you have the chance to visit or take a tour, I highly recommend it. It's a magical piece of Boston.