The Redwood Library and Athenaeum predates the Charleston Library Society (founded in 1748), New York Society Library (founded in 1754), and the Boston Athenaeum (founded in 1807).
It was the first classical public building built in America, designed in the manner of Italian Renaissance Architect Andrea Palladio, in the Georgian Palladian style.
The main facade facing Bellevue avenue is based upon a plate in Edward Hoppus' Andrea Palladio's Architecture published in 1735. The oldest section, today called the Harrison Room, still houses the majority of the original books that were purchased as a collection in London.
Occupying British troops allegedly looted numerous books (many of which were later returned) prior to the Battle of Rhode Island during the American Revolution.
19th Century
In 1833 the Library furthered its abilities as an institution, and re established itself as The Company of the Redwood Library and Athenaeum.
By 1858, membership and collection had grown so much as that an expansion was needed. This expansion, which became known as the Roderick Terry Reading Room was produced by George Snell of Boston.
Harrison's architecture.
In 1875, plans did go forward to develop another expansion to the Library. The Rovensky Delivery Room was designed by famed architect George Champlin Mason.
20th Century
In 1915, historian and architect Norman Isham restored the eighteenth century Harrison room to what he concluded was its original appearance. The Library's modern collection now includes more than 200,000 volumes as well as a museum collection of art and artefacts. The building was designated a National Historical Landmark in 1966.