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Joy of discovery. Power of place.

A member supported library, museum, and cultural center that everyone is invited to join.

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What’s New

Photograph depicts an individual holding an American flag outside City Hall, Boston, Massachusetts. The Custom House Tower is visible in the background. Manos, C. Bostonians Boston Athenaeum

Where’s Boston? 50 Years Later

Originally commissioned to celebrate the Bicentennial, Constantine Manos’s photographs, singularly and serially, celebrate Boston’s diversity, community, and idiosyncrasies

Folio Bistro interior with tables set and a wallpaper with images of books imprinted in the background.

Dine at Folio Bistro

Enjoy French and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a glass of wine or signature cocktail. Reservations are available via Resy.

At a Glance

1807
year founded
One of the country’s oldest and most distinguished member-supported libraries.
500,000
circulating books
From first editions to the latest bestsellers.
12
levels
Book stacks, art, reading rooms, terraces, and more.

Become a Member

For a day or a lifetime, explore the most interesting place in Boston.

Day Memberships Join Now