Boston Athenæum Open House

Step behind the Athenæum’s red leather doors on Saturday, September 12 for the institution’s 2nd Annual Open House.

Visitors will get a rare glimpse of the library’s members-only areas – the entire building, including the iconic fifth floor reading room, will be open for self-guided tours.  The Open House is a great opportunity for members and the public to learn more about the Athenæum’s history, its collections, and its landmark home at 10½ Beacon Street.

Guests will encounter portions of George Washington’s personal library; the oldest remaining colonial library in Boston, the King’s Chapel Collection; impressive works of art by John Singer Sargent, Gilbert Stuart, Polly Thayer Starr, N.C. Wyeth; and much more.  Docents will be located throughout the building to share interesting tidbits, detailed facts, and answer any questions visitors may have about collections, programming, and membership.

The event is free and open to the public.  The doors will open at 9 a.m.  Last admission will be at 3 p.m.

Skip the wait in line and register in advance. Limited advanced registration spots are now open, and advance registration will close Thursday, September 10 at 5 p.m. Same-day, on-site registration is available, but may require wait times.