The Athenaeum of Philadelphia invites the public to explore its rich architectural collection and a special exhibition celebrating its history. Located at 219 S. 6th Street, this historic institution has been a hub for architectural scholarship since its founding in 1814. With an impressive collection that includes over 350,000 architectural drawings and 80,000 circulating books, The Athenaeum stands out as a vital resource for scholars and the general public alike.
The building itself, completed in 1847, showcases stunning Italian Renaissance architecture. According to Kristina Wilson, Archivist and Gladys Brooks Curator of Architecture, “It’s a beautiful structure” that offers a welcoming atmosphere. Beth Hessel, Executive Director, emphasizes the institution’s historical importance as a gathering place for learning during a time when free public libraries were nonexistent.
The Athenaeum’s core mission is to provide access to its extensive collection, which focuses primarily on Philadelphia’s architectural legacy. “We have an incredible collection that continues to grow,” says Hessel. The library also features a diverse array of artifacts, furnishings, and decorative arts that reflect the city’s rich history.
Open Doors to Knowledge and Exploration
Although it operates as a membership library, many resources are accessible to the public. “You do not need to be a member to access the archives,” Wilson explains. Visitors only need to contact The Athenaeum to make an appointment. The library boasts a membership of over 3,000 individuals of all ages, creating an intergenerational community committed to learning.
A highlight of The Athenaeum is its special exhibitions gallery, which is always free to the public. Currently on display is “To Encourage Outstanding Scholarship,” a tribute to the legacy of Dr. Roger Moss, who served as director from 1968 to 2008 and was a prominent historic preservationist. The exhibition, running through December 20, 2025, features an original 1805 sketch of the Arch Street Meeting House along with other significant archival materials.
Visitors can also register for guided tours of the building, which include access to the member lounge and the famous Busch Room. Hessel notes that many consider the Reading Room to be “the most beautiful room in Philadelphia,” offering a unique glimpse into the past.
Preserving Philadelphia’s Architectural Heritage
Among the treasures housed in The Athenaeum is a vault that contains rare books and important blueprints, including a hand-rendered cross-section of the dome of the Capitol Building, designed by Thomas Ustick Walter. “Archives aren’t static,” Wilson points out. “They’re as vibrant and alive as they ever were.” This sentiment reflects the institution’s commitment to making its historical materials accessible to new generations.
Visitors to The Athenaeum can expect to leave with a sense of “wonder and amazement,” as Hessel hopes they develop a deeper appreciation for Philadelphia’s built environment and the influential figures who shaped it. The Athenaeum remains a vital institution, continually inviting exploration and engagement with the city’s architectural history.
For more information about the current exhibition and visiting details, individuals can contact The Athenaeum of Philadelphia or visit their website.
