Portsmouth Athenæum

A non-profit membership library, gallery, and archive, incorporated in 1817 and located in the heart of historic Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

The third-floor Shaw Research Library and Randall Gallery are open to the public from 1 to 4 p.m., Tuesday thru Saturday. For elevator access, please call (603) 431-2538.

UPCOMING EVENT

NH Gives: Athenaeum Building Facade Renovations

NH Gives: Athenaeum Building Facade Renovations

June 9, 2026 - June 10, 2026    
5:00 pm
NH Gives 2026 will support phase one of a planned three-phase multi-year restoration for the Portsmouth Athenæum’s landmark historic buildings located at 9 and 6-8 [...]

HOURS

 

Shaw Research Library &

Randall Gallery

 

Tuesday through Saturday
1 to 4 p.m.

 

 

Reading Room Tours

Unavailable at this time. Check back soon.

EXPLORE THE ARCHIVES

The Athenæum houses an outstanding collection of documents and artifacts relating to local history. It also preserves what is undoubtedly the finest collection in the state of materials relating to the history of New Hampshire’s only major seaport.

Athenæum Interim Director

Athenæum Interim Director

By Board President Jeffrey W. Keefe With the retirement of longtime Athenæum Keeper and Executive Director Tom Hardiman, we are looking ahead to effect a productive transition to new leadership. Appointing an Interim Director is our first major step toward this goal....

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A Letter from Tom Hardiman, Keeper and Executive Director

A Letter from Tom Hardiman, Keeper and Executive Director

By Keeper and Executive Director Tom Hardiman Many of you have already learned of my decision to take early retirement, effective July 31, after 26 years as your Keeper and Executive Director. We have achieved great things together, including the launch of our...

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June 2026: Pride Month

June 2026: Pride Month

By Research Librarian Jessica Zaricki On June 28, 1969, the Stonewall Uprising began in New York City as a series of riots and protests that are now considered the catalyst for the modern gay liberation movement. Over the following decades, annual marches...

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