The Athenæum has 400 members known as Proprietors (those awaiting an available membership are known as Subscribers) whose annual dues underwrite the costs of maintaining the collections and making them accessible according to professional standards. The membership covers nineteen states and two foreign countries . The institution is governed by volunteer officers and directors elected by the Proprietors.

The library welcomes about 700 visitors per year from the general public, who come from all over the globe to research Piscataqua region history and family genealogy. In addition to the 1100 member and other library users, the exhibitions, lectures, and concerts attract more than 2000 visitors annually.

As a non-profit institution, the Athenæum fills a central role in the community that reflects both its central location and the neoclassical elegance of its historic building in Market Square.  In the hours that the research library is closed, it is used as a meeting room for several civic and social groups. The professional staff conducts outreach programs for teachers, librarians, and interested scholars to familiarize them with the Athenæum's rich collections and to encourage cooperation among colleagues.

Please Help Support the Athenæum

The Portsmouth Athenæum is a non-profit member supported organization, established in 1816 and incorporated the following year with “the purpose of promoting learning and diffusing useful knowledge.” The Athenæum has continued this scholarly tradition for nearly two centuries and has greatly expanded its scope and outreach. The Athenæum maintains the Copley Research Library and the Randall Gallery as space for insightful and engaging exhibitions on regional subjects, as well as hosting concerts, lectures, readings, and other cultural programs.

Volunteering

Volunteers are always needed in every aspect of the Athenæum's activities. From straightening books to gallery sitting, from working on a committee to working with collections, volunteers enjoy the chance to learn more about the resources in the library and to meet interesting colleagues while helping to advance the mission of the organization.

Your support is needed and greatly appreciated!