As life has become increasingly virtual,  interest in physical artifacts, archived drawings, and preserved narratives flourishes. Philadelphians have made the Athenaeum reading rooms a home. Rather than restricting access, the Athenaeum adapted to accommodate new uses.  With the mission to preserve Philadelphia’s heritage still paramount, the archives were moved into a jewel-box-like underground vault, equipped with environmental controls and robotic, searchable filing systems. One tower holds Athenaeum academic functions and another its industrial and professional studio spaces. To accommodate its increased institutional role within the city, we present a greatly expanded and visible building, which supports the organization’s mission to disseminate useful knowledge and encourage access.