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Redwood Library and Athenaeum and its collection

Redwood Library and Athenaeum
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The Redwood Library and Athenaeum, located at 50 Bellevue Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island, is a unique institution that combines a subscription library, museum, rare book repository, and research center. Founded in 1747, it has a rich history and a diverse collection of resources that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're a history buff, a book lover, or a researcher, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum has something to offer.

Historical and Architectural Significance

The Redwood Library and Athenaeum is housed in a building of significant historical and architectural value. Designed by Peter Harrison and completed in March 1750, it was the first purposely built library in the United States and is the oldest neo-Classical building in the country. This makes it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

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History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Historic house Language & Literature Person & Artist

#7 History & Anthropology in Newport #8 Historic houses in Newport #4 Person & artist museums in Newport #14 History & Anthropology in Rhode Island #14 Historic houses in Rhode Island #4 Person & artist museums in Rhode Island #74 Language & literature museums in United States

#7 History & Anthropology in Newport #8 Historic houses in Newport #4 Person & artist museums in Newport #14 History & Anthropology in Rhode Island #14 Historic houses in Rhode Island #4 Person & artist museums in Rhode Island #74 Language & literature museums in United States
Redwood Library and Athenaeum
50 Bellevue Ave
RI 02840 Newport
Rhode Island

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Visitor information Redwood Library and Athenaeum

Opening hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday
10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday
10:00 – 16:00
Thursday
10:00 – 16:00
Friday
10:00 – 16:00
Saturday
10:00 – 16:00
Sunday
13:00 – 17:00
More opening hours

Admission

We don't have information about the tickets & prices of Redwood Library and Athenaeum.

Facilities

We don't have information about the facilities of Redwood Library and Athenaeum.

Location & Map

50 Bellevue Ave, Newport

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Redwood Library and Athenaeum have been found.

Redwood Library and Athenaeum Reviews

Redwood Library and Athenaeum has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The Redwood Library and Athenaeum in Newport, United States, is a historic institution that offers visitors a blend of library services and museum experiences. Founded in 1747, it's recognized as the oldest lending library in America and the oldest library building in continuous use in the country.

    Visitors appreciate the well-preserved colonial architecture and the building's historical significance. The library houses an impressive collection of rare books, artworks, and historical artifacts, which many find intriguing. The staff is generally described as knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the visitor experience.

    Some reviewers note that while the library's historical importance is undeniable, the experience might be relatively brief for casual visitors. The exhibits and collections are more likely to appeal to history enthusiasts, bibliophiles, and those with a keen interest in colonial American culture.

    On the downside, a few visitors mention that the space can feel a bit cramped, and the signage or explanations for some exhibits could be improved to provide more context for general visitors.

    Overall, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum offers a glimpse into early American intellectual life and colonial history. It's particularly valued for its architectural beauty, historical significance, and its function as both a working library and a museum.

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