Providence Athenaeum newsletters (Arch-007)

Historical Note

The Providence Athenæum (1836- ) is an independent, member-supported library and cultural center located in Providence, Rhode Island.

Founded originally as "The Athenæum" in 1836, its progenitors were two earlier libraries: The Providence Library Company, founded in 1753, and the Providence Athenaeum, founded in 1831. When they could not agree on terms for a merger, both organizations dissolved and a new library was formed, which purchased a selection of books and periodicals from the two earlier institutions. Housed originally in the Arcade on Weybosset Street in downtown Providence, the Athenæum moved to its new building at 251 Benefit Street in July, 1838. In 1850, “The Athenæum” was renamed “The Providence Athenæum" by amendment to its charter.

Providence Athenaeum bulletins and newsletters: Bulletins were published by the Athenaeum from 1895 until Summer 1995, initially containing primarily a list of new acquisitions, officers, and hours. Over the years the Bulletins evolved to include narrative articles and announcements of upcoming events. From September 1995 to the present, the Providence Athenaeum has published newsletters entitled The Owl (1995-2002) and The Universal Penman (2002-present). With the advent of the Providence Athenaeum website, continuous news and updates are available on various webpages such as "About", "Happenings", "Calendar", and "Catalog"; additional news is sent to members through social media and e-mail (for example "View from the Mezzanine", a weekly newsletter from the Director).

Sources, viewed online October 24, 2019:

• Providence Athenæum's "History" webpage
• Wikipedia article "Providence Athenaeum"