
Filmmakers and photographers, including Woody Allen and Walt Disney Pictures, have found the Athenæum to be the perfect backdrop for their movie scenes and photo shoots.
To help you visualize our historic building, check out this panoramic tour by Mark Roessler.
We are always delighted to welcome members and visitors, and to share this historic space with our community. Respectful photography of your visit to the library is very welcome! Make sure to tag us: @pvdath – we love to see your creative selfies and photos. Please be aware that this is a historic, working library, and visitors are expected to treat the building, staff, and other patrons with courtesy. The Athenæum reserves the right to ask any visitor who is being disruptive to leave the building.
Casual, amateur photography of the building restrictions:
- Photography should not disrupt library or staff functions
- No pictures of staff or patrons allowed at any time
- No flash photography or tripods
- No props, costumes, decorations, etc.
- No moving of furniture or books
- Must be quiet and respectful
- The Athenæum does not allow fashion or style photography unless by prior appointment
- All photography is at the discretion of library staff
See below for information regarding shoots such as wedding, engagement, headshots, lifestyle, etc.
Pricing for photoshoots begins at $250/hr for shoots that do not impact library functions and $2500/4 hrs for shoots outside of regular hours or that affect library services. Inquiries must be submitted to Jenny Young, Events Coordinator at 401-421-6970 x28 or jyoung@provath.org. Unscheduled shoots will be asked to leave the building immediately.
Special occasional/promotional photography
E.g. engagement, wedding, headshots, family photos, product, brand, lifestyle, social media
Note that the library is not typically able to accommodate large wedding parties.
Both professional and amateur
Professional filming and photography
E.g. movie, television, fine art, architecture, travel
Involves special scheduling and/or building closure.
Student/artist filming and photography
A limited number of appointments for students/artists wishing to photograph or film artwork or small projects at the Athenæum may be available upon request at least 7 days prior to the proposed shoot date.
Please send any inquiries or proposals to Jenny Young at 401-421-6970 x28 or jyoung@provath.org