Redwood Library and Athenaeum

The Redwood Library and Athenaeum, located in Newport, Rhode Island, is a historic institution that serves as both a library and a center for intellectual and cultural enrichment. Established in 1747, the Redwood Library is the oldest lending library in America and is renowned for its rich collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artworks, as well as its elegant Georgian architecture and historic significance.

The Redwood Library was founded by a group of civic-minded individuals, including Abraham Redwood, who sought to promote education, literature, and learning in the burgeoning colonial town of Newport. Over the centuries, the library has grown into a treasured cultural institution that serves as a repository of knowledge and a hub of intellectual activity for the local community and beyond.

The library's collection includes over 200,000 volumes, including rare books, first editions, and historical documents spanning a wide range of subjects, from literature and history to science and philosophy. Highlights of the collection include a first edition of John James Audubon's "Birds of America," manuscripts by renowned authors such as Edgar Allan Poe and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and a collection of early American imprints dating back to the colonial era.

In addition to its extensive holdings, the Redwood Library is also known for its stunning architecture and historic interiors. The library's main building, designed by renowned architect Peter Harrison, is considered one of the finest examples of colonial-era architecture in America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The interior features elegant woodwork, ornate plasterwork, and a soaring central hall that evokes the grandeur and elegance of Newport's Gilded Age.

Today, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum continue to fulfill their mission of promoting education, literacy, and intellectual inquiry through its diverse array of programs, exhibitions, and events. From author readings and lectures to art exhibitions and community forums, the library offers a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and interests.

Whether you're a bibliophile, history buff, or simply curious about Newport's rich cultural heritage, a visit to the Redwood Library and Athenaeum offers a unique opportunity to explore the past, engage with the present, and be inspired by the power of knowledge and ideas.