Boston Athenaeum

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Founded in 1807, the Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest independent libraries in the United States. The Anthology Society, which founded the Boston Athenaeum, was a group of fourteen people who had joined together in 1805 to edit The Monthly Anthology and Boston Review. The library and art gallery, established in 1827, grew rapidly, both by purchase of books and art. By 1851, it had become one of largest libraries in the United States, with more than half a million volumes. The collections specialize in Boston history, New England state and local history, biography, English and American literature, fine and decorative arts. The athenaeum also sponsors a variety of events such as lectures and concerts. It also serves as a center for discussions among scholars, bibliophiles and a variety of community interest groups.