Incorporated in 1810, the Salem Athenaeum is an independent membership library and cultural center hosting lectures, concerts, plays, discussion groups, author and poetry readings, storytelling, workshops for readers and writers, and literary social events.  

Library holdings include a contemporary circulating collection of fiction, non-fiction and children’s literature as well as historical research collections in literature for adults and children, natural sciences, political and social sciences, theology and travel.  

Beginning in 2017, the Salem Athenaeum became the presenter of the Salem Literary Festival.

Our Mission: 

To preserve and excite the literary and cultural passions of the North Shore

Salem Athenaeum Values Statement

Working together with friends and neighbors throughout the North Shore of Massachusetts and beyond, the Salem Athenaeum is committed to the pursuit of knowledge through life-long learning, self-discovery, and association.