What are the Library’s hours?
The Newspaper Reading Room is open at 8:30 am. The library is open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, Tuesday through Friday, and on Monday evenings until 8:00pm. From September through May the library is open on Saturdays from 9:00 to 4:00.

What kind of books are in the Athenæum?
Best sellers and contemporary books, rare books, prints, maps, reference material, newspapers, periodicals and more! The Athenæum's collections consist of over a half a million volumes. We are constantly adding to our collections. You can look at what is available by going to our website (www.bostonathenaeum.org) and accessing Athena. (Click on the picture of the card catalog).

Do I have access to the library if it is open for an event?
You may return or check-out books when the library is open for lectures and Athenæum events. However, only the first floor is open during events (with the exception of regular Monday nights)

May I bring my briefcase in?
We check all over-size briefcases and handbags—the coat check area is secure and you will be given a tag with which to reclaim your belongings. Valuable items may be kept with you by requesting an Athenæum bag in which to carry them.

May I use my cell phone?
As a courtesy to others in the library, cell phone use is not allowed.

How do I make a Reservation for an event?
You must make reservations on the Event Reservation Line: 617-720-7600. This line is dedicated to Events and will only receive External Calls. You must leave your name and ID number to reserve a place whenever Reservations are required.

May I bring a guest to Wednesday Tea or a lecture?
Guests are welcome when accompanied by the member. Any program fees will be the responsibility of the member. For Sold-Out Events, priority will be given to our membership, so check the Events Line. Discussion groups are reserved for members.

Why do I have 2 membership cards? (temporary, permanent-renewable)
Initially you will receive a temporary paper membership card. A permanent plastic card will be issued 6-8 weeks later. The permanent card will not have an expiration date and is renewable: you will not receive a new card every year. Your ID number is your library account number and will be how your records are stored. If you should loose your permanent library card another paper card will be issued to you and your name will be added to the list for another permanent plastic card to be printed (again—6-8 weeks).

May I hold a meeting at the Athenæum?
Business Meetings cannot be held at the library (other than Athenæum discussion groups or as arranged by the Director’s office).

What does Athenæum mean?
Athena was the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, arts and warfare. An Athenæum is an institution for the promotion of learning.

Where did 10½ come from?
“Half” street addresses were common in the 19 th century. Since the Athenaeum opened its doors on Beacon Street in 1849 it has been known as 10½, a designation that was not at odds with contemporary conventions.

I’d like to see some of the special collections and prints—when is it open?
You must make an appointment for access to rare books, manuscripts, prints and photographs so the curator is present to assist you.

May I bring my coffee in?
Food and drink are only permitted in the Members Lounge on the fifth floor and on the 2 nd and 5 th floor terraces. During events food and drink are allowed on the 1 st floor—but never in the Exhibition Gallery.

How many books may I check out at one time? Why are some 14-days and others 60-days?
You may check out six books. Newer books are on 14-day loan, but you may extend the loan if there is no waiting list. Call the circulation desk to renew or reserve any of the books you have checked-out, or would like to check-out.

Is there a Library Orientation (How do I use Athena)?Member tours are given on Wednesdays at noon by Jim Feeney, Circulation department. Meet in the lobby area in front of the Circulation Desk. The Reference Department on the 2 nd floor will give hands-on instruction.

60-day advance invoicing
Invoices are sent 60-days in advance of your membership expiration date. This coincides with the 60-day book allowance. Second notices are sent the month your membership expires. If your membership has lapsed (more than 30 days overdue), you may still renew it, however, renewing at least 60 days in advance will avoid any difficulties at the circulation desk, interruptions in receiving mailings or questions at the Security Desk. Please return your Invoice intact. It is a good idea to include your ID number on your check.

Tax Status of Membership
Library membership is considered “goods and services” by the IRS, and therefore is not tax-deductible. Only gifts and donations will receive a gift receipt for your tax files.

Where are the computer hook-ups?
The fifth floor has computer hook-ups. It is also a wireless environment.

What does the “G” mean in the elevator?
1G, 2G—are gallery level floors. The business and membership offices are on the fourth floor.