the plymouth athenaeum

founded 1812

Background
The Plymouth Athenaeum was founded in 1812, and since 1819 has been in its present location. The 1819 building, known as The Athenaeum, was completely destroyed during the Blitz in 1941, together with its library, museum, art galleries and archive collections. The current building opened in 1961, when the organisation’s name changed from the Plymouth Institution and Devon and Cornwall Natural History Society to the Plymouth Athenaeum.

The Plymouth Athenaeum, which is governed by a Board of Trustees, raises income through hirings, membership subscriptions, investments and donations. The building includes a members’ library, lecture room, large lounge, meeting rooms and a 340-seat theatre.

Collection
The library has around 3,500 books and archival material. The principal focus of the collection is local interest related to Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall. The collection includes complete volumes of the Society’s transactions and proceedings. There are also incomplete runs of the proceedings of the Devonshire Association, Doidges Annuals, Western Antiquary and South Devon Monthly Museum.

Contact information
The Plymouth Athenaeum Library
Derry's Cross, Plymouth PL1 2SW
tel: 01752 266 079 / email: info@plymouthathenaeum.co.uk

Membership
Annual subscription fees (includes full membership of the Athenaeum)

Membership is open to everyone interested in the study and promotion of science, technology, literature and art.

Full Membership: £60.00
Family Membership: £100.00
Student Membership: £30.00
Junior Membership (16-18 years of age): £10.00

Open to researchers and the public by request.

Website and social media
www.plymouthathenaeum.co.uk
Facebook: PlymAthenaeum
Twitter: @PlymAthenaeum
Instagram: plym_athenaeum

Status
Private charitable status within the Athenaeum. Registered charity no. 216963