The Athenæum is now offering curbside pickup of materials to library members. Please review the following guidelines before you request items.

Curbside Basics (see below for a more detailed Q&A)

1. Give us a call (401-421-6970) during library hours to request items.
2. A staff member will call you back when your materials are ready to pick up.
3. Come to the library during open hours. You can either come inside to pick up materials, or…
4. Call 401-421-6970 to alert staff you are at the College Street entrance.
5. Staff will bring your items out to you.

Please do not place holds through the online catalog. Requests received over voicemail might experience a delay in processing. Calling during open hours helps staff get books out faster!

Pick up your library haul in a brand new tote! Just $20 to support the library and carry your stuff around in style. Please call or visit to order.

Curbside Q&A

How do I request items?
Members can request materials by calling 401-421-6970 during library hours. You can check to see if an item is available for checkout using our online catalog and selecting “Providence Athenaeum” as the location. Please have the title and author ready when requesting books and audiobooks. If a requested item is unavailable or has been reserved by another member, we will notify you when scheduling your pickup and place a hold for any checked-out materials.

When/how can I pickup my materials?
Staff will notify you when your order is ready. Swing by the library and either stop in to pick up your items, or give us a call (401-421-6970) and a staff member will bring them out to you.

What materials are available?
All circulating items are eligible! That includes audiobooks, DVDs, periodicals, and, of course, books.

What if the library doesn’t have the thing I want? Can you get it?
We’ll do our best! Inquire at or call the Circulation Desk (401-421-6970) for more details.

I still have questions!
We’re happy to help! Please email membership@provath.org for assistance.