atheneum

Ath`e*ne"um, Ath`e*næ"um, n.; pl. E. Atheneums, L. Athenæa. Etym: [L. Athenaemum, Gr. Minerva by the Romans), the tutelary goddess of Athens.] 1 (Gr. Antiq.) Defn: A temple of Athene, at Athens, in which scholars and poets were accustomed to read their works and instruct students. 2. A school founded at Rome by Hadrian. 3. A literary or scientific association or club. 4. A building or an apartment where a library, periodicals, and newspapers are kept for use.

---