The Berkshire Athenaeum, Pittsfield's public library, exists to initiate, nurture and feed a passion for knowledge and learning. The library offers people of all ages the materials and services necessary to satisfy an appetite for information about popular cultural and social trends and their desire for enjoyable recreational experiences; enables older children and adults to explore personal, historical and cultural heritage; supplies the means for individuals to continue to learn throughout their lives; and provides the sophisticated information services needed to answer their questions; all in a welcoming setting for people to engage with others and discuss a variety of community issues.