Reference Services
Non-circulating reference materials cover a number of subjects including literature, history, art, music, science, and religion. We also have general reference works such as encyclopedias, dictionaries, and almanacs.
Whether you're researching a particular author, looking for gardening tips, or you just can't recall the title of that book you've been meaning to read, the Athenaeum's Reference Department is available to help you find what you're looking for.
Both members and guests may make use of the reference library, and questions
about the Athenaeum's history, collections and building are especially welcome. If you are unable to make it in
to the library, you may also submit reference inquiries via telephone and e-mail. Contact Carol Tatian, Reference
Librarian, at 401-421-6970, extension 16, or 
Reference help is available most hours the library is open.
For a quick online guide to locating materials at the Athenaeum, click here.
Technology
The Providence Athenaeum is a 19th century library that thrives in a 21st century world. Our nod to technology includes a high speed wireless network that is available throughout the building, ereaders for our members to borrow, and we participate on the social media platforms of Facebook and Twitter. For more information on how we intend to use technology please consult our current Technology Plan.
Reference Referrals
House History and Architecture
Rhode Island Historical Society Library
121 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906
Telephone: 401-273-8107
Contact: Lee Teverow
Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 10am-5:00pm
Website
Providence Preservation Society
21 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02903
Telephone: 401-831-7440
Contact: Kathleen McAreavey
By appointment only
Website
Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission
Old State House
150 Benefit Street, Providence, RI 02903
Telephone: 401-222-2678
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm
Website
Genealogy and Rhode Island History
Rhode Island Historical Society Library
121 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906
Telephone: 401-273-8107
Contact: Lee Teverow
Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 10am-5:00pm
Website
Rhode Island State Archives
337 Westminster Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903
Telephone: 401-222-2353
Contact: Kenneth Carlson
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm
Website
Providence Public Library
150 Empire Street, Providence, RI 02903
Telephone: 401-455-8000
Contact: Betty Fitzgerald for the Rhode Island Collection
Hours: Monday and Thursday, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 9:00am-5:30pm;
Sunday, 1:00pm-5:00pm
Website
City Archives
Providence City Hall, 5th floor
25 Dorrance Street, Providence, RI 02903
Telephone: 401-421-7749, ex. 314 or 315
Contact: John Meyers
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm
Website