Whispers of melodies and artistic inspiration echo within these walls. Welcome to the Athenaeum Music and Arts Library. It is a unique cultural gem in La Jolla. Founded in 1899 the Athenaeum is one of only a few nonprofit membership libraries. Only 17 exist in the United States.
Initially known as the Library Association of La Jolla it fulfilled the role of a membership library. Ellen Browning Scripps became the first president of the board of trustees. By the 1920s the library needed more room. Ellen Browning Scripps helped to fund a new building. William Templeton Johnson designed it. He later designed the San Diego Museum of Art. The new Spanish Renaissance building opened in 1921.
In 1955 the City of San Diego took over the general library’s operations. The Library Association retained music and art books. It became the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. Artist William Lumpkins designed an adjacent building. It complemented the main library. This new space housed the Joan & Irwin Jacobs Music Room. Its rotunda became the Athenaeum’s trademark.
By 1989 more space was needed again. When the public library moved the Athenaeum expanded. Architect David Raphael Singer connected the Lumpkins building. It joined part of the 1921 Templeton library building.
Since 1990 the Athenaeum has thrived. It hosts art exhibitions and concerts. The Athenaeum also offers lectures. Studio art classes are available too. In 2004 the Athenaeum launched a campaign. It was called “The Campaign to Reclaim”. The goal was to expand into the remaining parts of its buildings.
In 2007 the expanded and renovated space was revealed. The Main Gallery nearly doubled in size. A climate-controlled vault was added. It houses the artists’ books.
The Athenaeum provides library resources in music and the arts. Over 200 programs and cultural events occur annually. These events take place at multiple venues in San Diego. The library has a large collection of materials. It includes books periodicals and CDs. You can also find DVDs sheet music and artists’ books.
In 2016 the Athenaeum expanded to Logan Heights. The Athenaeum Art Center (AAC) was established. It serves as a multicultural community center.
The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library attracts many visitors. Over 100000 people visit each year. The library is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday. Members enjoy benefits such as discounts on events and classes.
The Athenaeum’s story reflects its dedication to music and art. From its humble beginnings to its present-day status it remains a treasure. The Athenaeum continues to enrich San Diego’s cultural landscape. As you leave take with you the echoes of creativity.