Book lovers all have one thing in common. We absolutely love books. Give us the opportunity to spend time in a bookstore or a library, and we will while away the hours browsing and reading. Nothing, after all, compares to the magic of cozying up in a chair and delving into a really good book. If your idea of the perfect afternoon is spending time with books, you'll fall head over heels with this Rhode Island library.
Book lovers will likely agree that Providence is an oasis, whether you're looking to buy or to borrow books. If you're not sure where to start, visit The Providence Athenæum.
Tucked along Benefit Street, the library has been a book lover's dream come true for more than two centuries. It's an independent library, supported by its members.
Stroll through the library that opened in 1826 and is older than even the oldest public library in the U.S.. It's a magical, welcoming destination for readers, writers, and everyone in between.
Did you know the first public library in the United States opened in Peterborough, New Hampshire, in 1833?
However, the current library dates back to 1836. It was created after the dissolution of the original Providence Athenæum and the Providence Library Company .
The Benefit Street library officially opened on July 11, 1838.
The Providence Athenæum has had its fair share of well-known visitors over the decades, but one of its earliest was Edgar Allan Poe.
Poe traveled to Rhode Island to win the heart of Sarah Helen Whitman. Alas, a happy ending was not meant to be, and the two would part ways rather quickly.
If you've never been to this beautiful library, you really have to experience it for yourself. You can visit or become a member.
Membership allows for borrowing materials, joining reading clubs, and more.
Whether you become a member or not, consider touring this historic library. Self-guided tours are available if you're on your own.
If you're part of a group, you can make an advanced reservation for a guided tour.
View more information on The Providence Athenaeum website. Or, stop by its Facebook page.
Have you been to this Rhode Island library? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! If you're looking to add to your collection of books, head over to this massive bookstore in Rhode Island.
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