Site Rental

Located a block from the US Capitol, the Folger Shakespeare Library is a unique historic site that may be rented for private events.  Evening rentals are permitted daily. Daytime rentals are available on Sundays only.

We are currently scheduling rental events through January 5, 2020, after which time the Folger spaces will be unavailable due to our building renovation project. We will update this page with future information about our rental program when the building reopens with updated facilities and brand new spaces to host events.

Please note that wedding-related events are not permitted.

For more information about site rentals please contact the Office of Special Events at (202) 675-0375 or specialevents@folger.edu.

Great Hall

Great Hall

Great Hall

Photo Credit: 
Julie Ainsworth

Great Hall

Home to two exhibitions a year as well as a First Folio on permanent display, the Great Hall is a spectacular setting just steps from the Capitol. It may be used on its own or in combination with the adjoining Paster Reading Room.

Capacities:
250 reception
150 dinner
100 reception and dinner

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Great Hall, 2014 Gala
Great Hall, 2014 Gala
Photo Credit: 
Jordan Silverman

Great Hall, 2013 Gala.

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Paster Reading Room, 2008 Folger Gala

Paster Reading Room, 2008 Folger Gala

Photo Credit: 
Tracey Atlee
Copyright: 

Tracey Attlee

Gail Kern Paster Reading Room

By day scholars gather in the Gail Kern Paster Reading Room to use the Folger’s world-renowned collection, but by night it can be the site for an unforgettable dinner or reception.

Capacities:
250 reception
200 dinner
100 reception and dinner

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Paster Reading Room, 2005 Renaissance Circles Dinner
Paster Reading Room, 2005 Renaissance Circles Dinner
Photo Credit: 
Tracey Attlee

Paster Reading Room, 2005 Renaissance Circles Dinner.

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Paster Reading Room, 2014 Gala
Paster Reading Room, 2014 Gala
Photo Credit: 
Jordan Silverman

Paster Reading Room, 2014 Folger Gala.

Founders’ Room

Originally designed as a private office for the Folger’s founders, the Founders’ Room is an intimate space perfect for small receptions and dinners.

Capacities:
50 reception
30 dinner

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Founders' Room, dinner
Founders' Room, dinner
Photo Credit: 
Julie Ainsworth

Founders' Room, set for dinner.

Board Room

Decorated in an English Regency style, the Board Room is suitable for small dinners, receptions, and meetings.

Capacities:
50 reception
30 dinner

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Board Room, dinner
Board Room, dinner
Photo Credit: 
Julie Ainsworth

Board Room, set for dinner.

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Elizabethan Theatre

Elizabethan Theatre

Photo Credit: 
Julie Ainsworth

Elizabethan Theatre

The Elizabethan Theatre is an ideal setting for lectures, musical recitals, and theatrical productions. Availability is dependent on the performance schedule.

Capacity:
250 seated