The public can come in for free any day of the week and walk around the first floor. The exception is when there is an event which usually takes place in the evening.
The info below is not correct. The public is welcome to visit the first floor and see the special collections or enjoy sitting and reading in comfort. Admission when there's not a gallery exhibition is $8 for adults, $6 students/military, and children 12 and under are always free. We offer Card to Culture admission for $2. When there is a gallery exhibition the price is $10 for adults, $8 students/military. Come visit us! https://www.bostonathenaeum.org/visit/hours-admission
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