Did you know that there is a secret library hidden on the top floor of Pike Place Market? Inside, you’ll find a peaceful oasis with waterfront views, plenty of seating for reading and working, and shelves lined with rare books. However, there’s a reason why it’s so quiet inside: not just anyone is allowed in.
Read on for all the details!
Folio: The Seattle Athenaeum is a non-profit, membership-based library and cultural center tucked away on an upper floor of Pike Place Market. Most of the time its reading rooms are a quiet space to work while watching ferries on Elliott Bay, but sometimes Folio hosts lively events. It’s open six days a week for members.
That’s right: you have to be a member or have an access pass in order to gain entry to Folio. First: an annual membership costs $75 for students and $150 for individuals. It includes the following:
- Access to Folio’s reading and working rooms in Pike Place Market (with free high-speed WiFi and complementary beverages).
- Access to the library’s thousands of books.
- A 10% discount off books at local bookstores such as Elliott Bay Books, Third Place Books, and UW Bookstore.
- Book clubs and special events.
Hot tip: On a budget? If you scroll down to the bottom of Folio’s membership page, you’ll find a link for a “pay what you want” membership option.
If you don’t wish to become a member, you can also purchase a daily or weekly access pass. A day pass is $5 and a weekly pass is $25. You can pay online in advance or with cash at the door.
Once you’re in the door you should keep in mind that, like most libraries, Folio has a usage policy that aims to cultivate an “atmosphere conducive to reading, writing, study and research.” For example: talking, phone calls, and food are all off-limits in the reading rooms.
One last tip: Folio regularly hosts interesting events. These include book discussions, a philosophy club, a members-only happy hour, open mic nights, writing workshops, concerts, and more. Most of these events have donation-based admission so you can pay what you wish to attend.
For more information and to get a membership or access pass, you can visit the Folio website.
Folio: The Seattle Athenaeum
Location: 93 Pike St #307, Seattle, WA
Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed Sundays)