News and Events for Nantucket Island
Nestled in the heart of downtown Nantucket, the Nantucket Atheneum has been a beacon of learning, connection, and community spirit for nearly two centuries, providing access to knowledge in a close-knit island setting. Founded in 1834, our island’s public library has evolved into much more—it’s a vibrant hub that nurtures minds, supports well-being, and fosters a sense of belonging for residents and visitors.
The Nantucket Atheneum is introducing a new chapter in their many programs designed to enlighten, educate, and empower our community. They are introducing the Atheneum Insight Series designed to celebrate ideas, community, and conversation. This new series honors the legacy of past speakers at the Atheneum while embracing new voices, […]
Nantucket Atheneum Pass(port) Program The Nantucket Atheneum is expanding its educational offerings with the launch of The Pass(port) Program, a new initiative offering free museum and experiential passes to library patrons. Library cardholders — both year-round residents and visitors — can borrow passes for complimentary admission to select island museums […]
For nearly two decades, One Book, One Island (OBOI) has united the Nantucket community through the shared experience of reading and discussion. Led by the Nantucket Atheneum in collaboration with numerous local organizations, this cherished annual tradition has encouraged literacy, cultural engagement, and meaningful dialogue. As the program comes to a […]
More than two decades ago, the Nantucket Atheneum was chosen as beneficiary of a fundraising effort that has become such beloved island tradition. Even during the pandemic, participants continued to do it from homes around the world. This November 28, more than 1,000 people will again gather on Children’s Beach, […]
Each year the Nantucket Atheneum invites organizations, book clubs, individuals, and businesses to submit their team’s candidate for the annual community read. Participants were asked to consider books based on quality, accessibility, and relevance to our richly diverse island. Thanks to all who wrote in suggesting titles for One Book, […]
During the first part of January, until January 23, the Nantucket Atheneum is soliciting book choices from our island community.
Formed in 1834 as a private, membership organization, the Nantucket Atheneum has had nine librarians in its storied history, beginning with famous astronomer Maria Mitchell. Nantucket’s Great Fire of 1846 destroyed the former building and virtually all of the library’s collections. The Atheneum was rebuilt on the same site in […]
As writers use words to articulate the human condition, dancers uses movement to express human emotion. Both artistic endeavors require dedication and imagination, hard work and passion, giving into rhythm and continuing with intention. Whether you use an interplay of words or an interplay of motion, both writing and dance communicate. As author Lene Fogelberg wrote: “Dancing is like poetry written by our bodies: our outstretched arms our words of longing.”
