How to Conduct Research at the Athenaeum

Busch Reading Room (Reference Room). Photo by Tom Crane, 2006.

The first step in conducting research at the Athenaeum is to check our online catalogs.  The Athena Library Catalog and Philadelphia Architects & Buildings site contain holding information and call numbers for the most of the items in the Athenaeum's collections.  If you identify the call numbers of the items you would like to see before your research visit, your time at the Athenaeum will be used more effectively. 

Research at the Athenaeum is by appointment only. Table space is limited and the reference room is often used for other purposes, such as programs and lectures. It is important to make an appointment well in advance of the date that you would like to visit. You must contact Bruce Laverty or Michael Seneca to make an appointment.

If you are not an Athenaeum member, you will be required to complete a Guest Reader Form on your first research visit.  You may also fill out the form in advance and bring it with you.  All researchers must present photo identification on each visit.