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Boston Public Library
Categories: Public Services & Government Libraries Event Planning & Services Venues & Event Spaces Public Services & Government Landmarks & Historical Buildings Libraries, Venues & Event Spaces, Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
700 Boylston St(between Exeter St & Fairfield St)
Boston, MA 02116
Neighborhood: Back Bay
(617) 536-5400
- Nearest Transit:
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Ring Rd @ Boylston St (9)
Boylston St @ Dartmouth St (10, 170, 193, 39, 55, 9)
Copley Station - Outbound (Green Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 9 am - 9 pm
Fri-Sat 9 am - 5 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
240 reviews for Boston Public Library
Review Highlights
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"Find Bates Hall, a huge arched ceiling room with wifi." In 13 reviews -
"Well kept and a wealth of books." In 114 reviews -
"McKim, Mead & White at their best." In 19 reviews
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240 reviews in English
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Review from Polly H.
San Diego, CA
5/26/2012
This is the most beautiful library I've ever been to. Like...what the heck? Why don't we have any libraries like this in California (more specifically, Orange/SD)!?
Upon entering, you're overcome with marble everything, beautiful walls/ceilings. Basically, everything and every where you look, you're punched in the face with beauty (weird metaphor, but whatever). And one of the study rooms is like walking in to Hogwarts. I'm sure every one has mentioned this in their review, but I couldn't not mention it! SO SO SO gorgeous.
If only I lived in Boston, I would definitely come here to study on a daily basis (and I don't even usually study on a daily basis but this library would motivate me to do so!). -
Review from Jenn H.
San Francisco, CA
5/14/2012
What! Is this a library or a journey into a marbled dream filled with paintings and journals and books?
Seeing the medieval scenes and mermaids reminded me of being inside the ancient chapels in Italy, only this was a living, breathing library in the middle of an urban city in America and it was so satisfying to see that in a modern public building.
If you visit Boston you MUST come here. They have poems written by the first unofficial poet of America, mysterious rooms, and beautiful artistry.
Yay Boston! -
Review from Carol B.
4/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
I know, I know...who visits a library while they are on vacation...Only me.
This place is amazing, even Rus agreed. Best library that I have ever visited.
Huge ceilings, multiple study rooms, friendly librarians! What an amazing court yard and fountain, and not crowded! If you are a photography student, this would be an amazing place to visit and practice some photography skills.
Great stop if you are touring around the city and in need of a public restroom as well. Centrally located and it seems like popular food trucks often stop outside. -
Review from Danny B.
Boston, MA
5/25/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Ever walk into a building and feel inspired by its beauty and history? That's the original section of the BPL for me. I could write paragraphs upon paragraphs of love and affection for the BPL, but know that it is perfection and one of the best places in Boston.
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Review from Marisa B.
Boston, MA
The first public library in America, and one of my favorite places in Boston - be sure to check out the garden between the Johnson & McKim buildings. Take the time to check out the exhibits they have, and tour the beautiful McKim building. You won't find a better place to not spend money in town!
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Review from Chris C.
4/4/2012 5 Check-ins Here
So my first thought was its just a library that is city sized. Holy crap was I wrong about that. This place is part library, part museum, part archive, part social gathering place, part park and part architectural masterpiece.
Just take some time to walk around the building and look at the amazing architecture. Its seriously one of the most impressive if not the most impressive building in Boston. Once you are done taking in all that take a stroll out to park/garden in the middle of the library. Its an amazing oasis in the middle of the city. I don't understand why more people don't come here although I'm glad they don't because it means more room for me.
Once you are done with all that go check out some of the museum quality exhibits they always have going on. Much like any set of changing exhibits my interest level changes depending on the subject, but one thing you can count on is the quality of the presentation.
Lastly make sure to check out the rare books room. Its a pretty neat place. The most interesting books are behind glass and some are even in climate & light controlled cases. The staff in this section are nice although you really have to talk to them a lot if you want to get them to take out the really cool and oldest books.Listed in: When 5 Stars Aren't Enough
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Review from Russell B.
Manhattan, NY
4/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Saying this library is ginormous is an understatement. I think it's impossible to explain how huge this place is.
When we first arrived, we were greeted by two other librarians who were very nice. Once they found out we were from NYC they told us several chambers of this library we had to visit. I was blown away by the built in water fountain it had.
Also all the landmarks within the library was pretty interesting. Several monumental paintings on the wall, and thousands upon thousands of books.
The library even had a restaurant within it. Not no cafe, but a full fledged restaurant.
Yup this place completely out does everything you would think a library would do.
If this place existed in NYC, I would of probably studied a ton of more then I did. The library visit made me smarter by just walking through it.
I just feel sorry for whoever has to put the library books back in place. -
Review from Rasien I.
Shhhhhhh!!!! be quiet! Its a library....
A library and a museum all rolled into one... I absolutely loved the Boston Public Library. i didn't go in to look at books or study, I just went to admire the building interior. This place is like a museum... the entry foyer is Romanesque, there are fountains outside, and amazing architecture on the inside. Spent about 30 minutes roaming around just admiring the building. :)
But there are parts of this library that came straight out of the 80s... there's really nothing too fascinating about that part...Listed in: Tourist In... Boston
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Review from Dorothy W.
Cambridge, MA
1/1/2012
B is for Books,
Any title you need.
O is for Options;
There's so much to read.
S is for Sales;
Great for the book lovers.
T is for Tall Tales
Behind the book covers.
O is for Open;
It's open to all.
N is for Nooks
In the vast reading hall.
P is for Paintings,
So stunning and cool.
U is for Useful;
Much better than school.
B is for Bates;
A wonder to see.
L is for Lectures;
They're fun and and they're free.
I is for Info;
You can learn so much here.
C is for Courtyard;
It's pretty all year.
L is for Love;
Yes, weddings allowed.
I is for Intellect;
There's a lot in this crowd.
B is for Beauty;
There is much in this spot.
R is for readers;
We are smart and we're hot.
A is for Authors;
So many, it's true.
R is for Research;
Lots of helpers here, too.
Y is for Yippee;
It's a true Boston treasure.
Get over here soon
For work or for pleasure. -
Review from Alice S.
Boston, MA
3/10/2012
This library is absolutely gorgeous! Architecture wise, it's breathtaking with it's almost Romanesque style. I think the one thing that use to stand out to me as a child were the black, very gothic locking lamps attached to one side of the library.
Inside, the building is so large that I still haven't had the chance to explore every single room despite frequenting it a lot in the past. But I do remember that one of my favorite parts used to be the gorgeous open air courtyard inside. It has dainty tables for people who want lunch in the library (I believe there is a cafe/bakery right next to the courtyard). There is also a fountain in the middle.
This library also has an extensive selection of books for people of all ages - it's children's room and teen's room is the best out of any library I've every visited. It also provides great, free computer access.
My one, and only, complaint is that the library's DVDs shelves are rather lacking - they really don't have a lot of choices, and out of the few that they have, the movies are rather outdated.
But, all in all, it really doesn't hurt to visit this library at least once, even if it is just to explore. -
Review from Santi T.
I automatically felt smarter when I walked in here! There are two parts to the public library and be amazed with the layout and impressive book collection if you're killing some time.
They have the most beautiful courtyard and the architecture will intrigue you. Unfortunately, I came through the back entrance on Boyston which wasn't as impressive as the Dartmouth entrance with the stairs and the American flags.
Be sure to check out the front area where you can see the old fashion green lamps being used. FYI: you can take photos in the area without a flash. I got scolding from the library staff.
There is a cafe which I didn't get to take advantage of but would assume is pretty decent.
As for philanthropy, I understand Margaret and H.A.Ray, authors of Curious George, donated a significant amount to the children's Room. There is also a donation drop box in the front entrance.
Take advantage of this beautiful work of art - inside and out. -
Review from Jonathan C.
Somerville, MA
3/25/2012
The library itself gets 5 stars, so much to see inside, so many resources to take advantage of. But can be annoyingly noisy with the library tours roaming around, and take care not to awaken the sleeping locals
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Review from Basia P.
Boston, MA
1/11/2012
I can't think of anything I don't like about BPL...
...even their website is great [including the user login section where you can manage material that you've checked out].
Love it! -
Review from Ran D.
Worcester, MA
12/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Boston is full of great places to walk around and explore. So I think a lot of people miss the BPL.
Even if you hate books for some reason, the people watching is priceless. -
Review from S B.
Manhattan, NY
3/12/2012
Spectacular architecture, beautiful cloister-esque courtyard, museum and art exhibits, and an all around fantastic library with very nice and helpful staff.
If I lived in the area, I would be here often. -
Review from Cassy H.
Out of all the libraries that I've been to (so far), BPL has to be my favorite by far. It's conveniently located right off the Copley T stop, so it's super easy to get to.
My favorite part of the library has to be the courtyard with the fountain. You almost feel as if you have been transported to Europe. (See picture). It's a nice place to have lunch on a (relatively) warm, sunny day.
My second favorite part of the library is Bates Hall, which is a huge "Harry Potter" style reading room. It's usually pretty quiet (minus the occasional tourist group that walks in with the ooohs and ahhhs). It's a good place to get your nerd on, read, do work, or whatever.
My third favorite part of the library is the cafe, which is near the courtyard. It's not fantastic food or anything, but it's just convenient and relatively cheap for a quick grab.
Next time, you're in Back Bay, why not check out the library? It's free and you'll feel smarter afterwards. :o) -
Review from Frannie Z.
Haverhill, MA
Wowzers, now thatsa lotta marble!
So yeah I finally had to come check out Nicole's lover. Beautious. So many books & not enough time. Wah
Bates Hall is the epitome of "library study area".
Only problem, why's it gotta be so far away?
Actually my biggest peeve is those nasty skater punk rats who should be lined up on Copley Sq green & shot. Get security or the po-po to shoo them away & I'll add the next star. -
Review from Morgen B.
11/22/2011
One of the coolest libraries I've been too. Beautiful. Breathtaking. Stately.
It's a nice location, and quite unassuming from the outside. Inside, a world of books, maps and shadows of history's past.
I like things like this, so I'm gushing, but seriously, its wonderful. They have a smaller room dedicated to maps. Love maps.
The courtyard is amazing and I'm determined to have lunch there one day. ONE DAY. If I lived a leisurely lifestyle, I'd walk around the BPL in my satin slippers and sit in random places to read, head over to their cafe for an overpriced sandwich and then check out a book that I most likely won't return on time.
It's that kind of building. -
Review from Nicole V.
Oh hey BPL. Don't fret that I haven't reviewed you. I know you may have felt a little neglected since I talk a big game about our long term love affair but I have not made my affections public via my Yelp reviews. I was waiting for the right moment. Once my count was hovering near 30 and realized I hadn't reviewed you yet, I knew there was no one (nothing?) better to ring in triple digits with than the BPL. If you were a person, now would be the time where I drop to one knee and pull a ring out of my pocket.
With that creepishly long rambling opening, I would like to dedicate number 100 to the BPL; the love I'd like to spend the rest of my life with.
The first time I walked into the McKim building I stood and stared for a solid five minutes. I eventually walked up the breathtaking staircase and became more in awe every second. As I stepped into the huge room on the second floor (Bates Hall), I was totally infatuated. I know it sounds odd, but that was honestly when I realized that I would fall in love with Boston. Since that moment I commonly refer to the BPL as "my lover". The term "obsessive" frequently gets tossed around when talking about my passion for the BPL, but I'm not even a little bit sad about that.
During my study months it would be an honest showdown between the BPL and my apartment in the contest of "where I spend more awake hours". Though I changed apartments three times in less than a year and a half, I never deviated from the BPL. I may have even chosen my gym based on the proximity to the BPL so that my study schedule did not have to change. From February until mid-May and again from August to mid-November I spend between five and six days a week at the library. I nod to the other regulars, take a seat while I spread out and put my nose in the books.
When I need a break from studying, you can often find me in The Courtyard. The Courtyard is one of the best kept secrets in Boston that I'm willing to spread. There are few places in the world that give me the same feeling that this place does. When I am doing the study schedule 9 - 5 on a Saturday, The Courtyard can make it feel effortless. I once saw a guy propose to his girlfriend there and it was my dream come true (seriously... I plan on having my wedding here and I'm still single).
Yes, you can get books out from the main part of the library. The online reserving system is great for when I only have five minutes to stop by. Plus the digital collection to feed my Nook is great.
And yes, you really should take advantage of all the free exhibits. My favorite ever was a book binding exhibit. I didn't know such a thing existed until I spent over three hours there.
And YES, there are great book sales there about every two months where you can walk away with arm loads for $10.
But these are just additional benefits to the BPL. The true beauty is in the gut feeling you get just being there. It's like falling for a girl's personality and then realizing she's a hot doctor (I'm looking at you Olivia Wilde on House). -
Review from Ryan K.
Waltham, MA
Updated - 3/5/2012
Where better to spend your day studying. The new section of the library really doesn't impress me at all... but the old part is out of this world. If you love history and statues, this place is just for you.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/5/2011
One of the best libraries that I have ever been to! I am almost always their reading and studying in… Read more »
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Review from Nat C.
Quincy, MA
1/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
It is important to take a tour through the old building to check out all the paintings and artwork on the 3rd floor. The best place in the world - hands down!
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Review from Shalin D.
10/27/2011
Gorgeous building.
Mountains of books.
Central location.
Courtyard Cafe.
Rare books collection.
2nd Fl study room in the old library.
The reasons for any bibliophile to visit just go on and on... -
Review from Anna A.
Napa, CA
6/25/2011
The Boston Public Library is an incredible monument. It's the first public library/lending library in the US... and it is still very much a living library. One can even borrow DVDs, so it's in the modern age (or perhaps postmodern)
It's a public library that's a pleasure to the eye. One room has a medieval theme, while there is also a spectacular acid trip of a mural by John Singer Sargent. We tend to associate Sargent with well-mannered portraits of society folks, but here at the BPL is his amazing allegorical mural that could be summed up "from Athens to Jerusalem." It is called "The Triumph of Religion" and manages to encompass ancient Babylonian and Egyptian gods, Jewish prophets, the mysteries of the rosary, it's as much a kaleidoscope as the Stanford Chapel.
The Boston Public Library has PLENTY for the avid reader and food for thought! -
Review from Kacie M.
Boston, MA
9/5/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Who still goes to the library anyway?
This girl does. Oh, and a bunch of homeless dudes. But if I were homeless I'd probably hang out at this library too. It's warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and there's always something to read when the security guard comes and wakes you up for the third time that afternoon.
I'm a big reader and a fervent defender of public libraries, and this is one of my favorite locations. The courtyard is a great place to hang out and read on a nice day. The architecture is beautiful and there are a lot of exhibits, but most importantly (to me) are the resources they have. There are an endless amount of books and the ones that they don't have at this location can be put on hold and brought over from one of the many other branches. They also have lots of computers for public use and free wireless. Sometimes the wireless can be spotty, but I've found that if I stay on the first floor I get a reliable connection.
I'm a huge fan of the self-checkout machines and the self-pickup area for books on hold. Once you use the checkout machine it is very easy to get the hang of and moves much faster than when there was one librarian checking everyone out.
This branch is open on Saturdays and in the afternoon on Sundays (except in the summer). I would love it if they would stay open past 5 on Fridays, but I guess no one's perfect! -
Review from Kelsey M.
Boston, MA
2/7/2012 20 Check-ins Here
Beautiful facility and grounds! Great selection of books, multimedia and computer resources. The BPL website is great for making reservations and finding and reserving items that are more difficult to get. One disappointment is that the BPL has not developed an iPhone app to search the catalog or view your account status.
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Review from Alex B.
8/17/2011
I really suck for never hitting up the BPL after living less than a mile away for 5 years. I finally made it in and this place is a hidden gem of the city.
I love the grand marble entrance way on the Copley square side as well as the old printing press and the rare books section. They have artifacts from John Adams and George Washington which is cool and the smell of old musty books strikes your nostrils as you make your way to that area.
I think this is a great place to take a date or just chill alone in the courtyard to read or get work done. I will really try to make the most of my last few weeks in this city by spending some time here reading. -
Review from Crissy H.
1/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
Who knew someone could spend two hours just walking around the library...We thought we would pop in for just a minute or two and ended up in here for close to two hours...and we could have stayed longer if we weren't running out of valuable time in Boston. It's just amazing to see the various exhibit they have, the old architecture, and the revamped new section. My favorite was the study in the old section of the library - looked liked you walked on set of a movie :-)
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Review from Skye G.
This building is beautiful. The artwork, the ceilings, the detail is amazing. I loved the water fountain in the indoor garden area.
I've been wanting to stop in but each time I do it was a Sunday and it was closed.
Any MA resident can get a card from the circulation desk and check out books.
Great place to hang out any day but note to self for the next rainy day. -
Review from Jennifer R.
Somerville, MA
6/19/2011
Since I was an English major in college, I feel like it's impossible not to like a place completely full of books and people who love them! The architecture is, of course, gorgeous, which is obvious to most who see it. I don't even really hate the seventies look the 'modern' part's got going on; it kind of meshes with the vibe. And the outdoor courtyard is awesome!
I took off a star because it always smells vaguely like urine at the entrance (but again, everyone gets access to books..so worth it!) and because the stacks are very difficult to navigate. -
Review from Andy F.
Worcester, MA
8/11/2011
A stunning courtyard and a great little cafe. The Boston Public library is immense and a fantastic resource.
To emphasize it's true Urban nature--the entrance is scented with just a hint of urine and the second floor smells like BO-- due mostly to the homeless, who often make this their choice of venue for their day's activities.
But don't let that stop you. And of course-- we as taxpayers should just continue to allow vagrants to hang out all day-- just like they do in Nantucket, or Tokyo-- or wait a minute-- that's right-- they don't.
Could be a great place. -
Review from April C.
As you walk up to the facade of this 160+ year old building, you can't help but be lured back to the time in which it was erected. I can, without effort, hear the horse and carriage, bouncing by on the narrow cobblestone street, the quiet chatter of Bostonians of a bygone era in the background, as they stroll down the sidewalk, complete with top hats and petticoats.
As you enter the building, the imagery becomes even more romantic, as the worn marble of the grand staircase and two majestic lions (of unpolished marble) welcome you into the depths of this historic library.
"Come forth and learn" call the massive wall murals along the staircase walls. "Take a moment and explore my corners" whisper the antique windows, inviting us to steal a peak down to the courtyard below. "Take me in, feel the essence of those who have come before you" encourage the green book lamps and vaulted windows of the reading room. "Contemplate me" plead the murals of Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, John Singer Sergeant and Edwin Austin Abbey . "Realize my magnitude" orders the collection of rare prints, including the likes of Mozart, Shakespeare and John Adams. "Enjoy" insists the City of Boston.
And do so for free.
The Boston Public Library is an amazing spot to visit. To pass time, to learn, to grow, to explore, to see artwork, to meet writers, to teach, have a cup of tea, to do absolutely nothing. It is whatever you want it to be.
There is also a new, modern, non--glorious side of the library (frown) built in the 1970's. I don't like that side, mostly for it's depressing, disco-era architecture and design, but it's the side where you actually check out books and stuff like a normal library, so it's the part I don't use, really, ever. I buy my own books, in the hopes of one day having floor-to-ceiling recessed book shelves and a rolling ladder built into the my very own study...but that's not pertinent.
Bottom line, the library is a must, whether you live here or are just visiting.
Drink it in, my penny-pinching art-aware literary lovers!Listed in: You're Poor? Yeah, We've Got…
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Review from Matthew F.
Boston, MA
2/23/2012
This review is for people who might want to use or work at the BPL. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND anyone in Boston for a visit should come here: it is one of the most beautiful libraries in the country (definitely on a par with the NYPL, for sure even prettier). The Sargent murals and palazzo design are truly remarkable and well worth a visit -- REALLY, please come here.
Now for those locals, or temporary locals like me, who are thinking of working here. It is a pretty great place to work (especially Bates Hall, which is very much like the high-vaulted, elegant library halls in old universities). The chairs are comfortable and there are outlets and ethernet ports at every seat (though there is decent Wi-Fi connection if you are a Library account holder). It gets crowded and, being a public library, attracts the usual sampling of muttering, odd folks and homeless that these places do. It's really not a big deal, but for this reason you should always bring anti-bacterial stuff if you're a germaphobe like me and be wary of leaving your laptop unattended -- which I think one ought to do anywhere, really.
I'm a scholar away from home for a year on a fellowship so I need access to academic books, which my other library, the Athenaeum, does not always have. The BPL has a very good selection of just about anything I might need (humanities and social sciences). The only thing is most of the good stuff is in storage and you have to page it from the 2nd-floor desk. It takes about a half hour to get it and you have to use these books in the library only (they cannot be checked out). If you're looking at lots of things, it can get annoying to-ing and fro-ing from the paging desk and the Bates, especially if you've grabbed a seat and it's crowded and the paging desk gets lethargic -- another symptom of the public library approach. Most normal, hardworking folks (patrons in the Bates) seem trustworthy enough to look after your laptop while you head off for your books, but you should always rely on your best judgment here.
I also look at a lot of things in the Fine Arts Library on the 3rd Floor. Again, everything is paged and the selection is pretty solid, even for recent publications. I cannot speak for journals as I am able to use my home university subscriptions via off-campus VPN. The Fine Arts Library just looks like a bomb went off in it, however. It is a sad, dilapidated, crumbling space that makes me wonder what the BPL is thinking or where its budget is being spent (obviously not on the Fine Arts Library). There are NO OUTLETS at any seat -- c'mon guys, this is the 21st century! There are also NO RESTROOMS anywhere but the icky one on the first floor -- a definite fail for the BPL and really annoying if you really have to go and have to pack up EVERYTHING and head down to the first floor, since the Librarians on the 3rd floor will not allow you to leave anything at your seat -- they're not the friendliest crowd up there.
Over all, though, for a public library, the BPL is a solid choice for a serious morning or afternoon of work in an inspiring space. But just be prepared for the drawbacks I list above. -
Review from Amy B.
I love reading, but I also needed to break my habit of spending loads o' cash on books that I then needed to box and move every few years. The answer: The public library.
Three library tips:
1. Register your library card online at http://bpl.org. Then you can request books through the site. You'll get an email when they're available, and you have 1 week to pick them up from the reserve shelf. It's super easy! Reserve media (DVDs, CDs, etc.) are stored behind the circulation desk, so you may have to wait in line to get them. But still! So easy!
2. Master the self-checkout machine. There are four steps: Scan your card. Scan the book's bar code (the library bar code, NOT the store bar code--you may need to look inside the back cover). Swipe the book in the demagnetizer. Then touch "print my receipt." All done!
3. If there is a long line for the two self-checkouts, peek into the room with the circulation desk. A lot of times the line there is short and would be faster than waiting for the machine.
So why only 4 stars? I find the stacks confusing to navigate, for one. I would like if they had subject listings along with the Dewey Decimal numbers on the shelf signs. Second, it would be great if there were more than 2 self-checkout machines for a library this size. Sometimes the lines get ridiculous! And third, sometimes there is a REALLY long wait for popular materials (like, 4-5 months).
Still, all told, I am able to feed my reading obsession on the cheap with maximum convenience thanks to the Boston Public Library. -
Review from Teng L.
San Francisco, CA
12/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is the most beautiful library I have ever seen in my life. I've never taken photos outside or inside a library until I've seen this place. Those giant marble lion statues inside were stunning. I felt like I was walking into a movie. Not only is it beautiful, it's also a practical place to do some studying. There are plenty of seats outside in the courtyard next to a beautiful fountain. I need more time to explore more of this place.
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Review from Leslie L.
Boston, MA
4/21/2011
I love this library! Everything from the online hold process to the Suggest a Purchase section on their website.
If you want to read something, but they don't have it, make sure you check out that section on the website!
I also had them research the untimely death of a distant relative way back in the 70's. Within a few weeks, they had mailed me photocopies of the local newspaper coverage about what had happened.
Outstanding. -
Review from Matthew P.
Boston, MA
4/21/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I absolutely love the BPL system. They have everything you can possibly imagine in the way of books and media. They even have new releases! You can just sign up online and do it all from a computer or even your smartphone! I place holds on stuff I want and when it's ready I come to pick it up. The item can be anywhere in the BPL system and they'll ship it over to whichever place you want to pick it up at (Copley for me). I have found very eclectic movies here that Netflix doesn't even have! Score!
The building is very old and stuck in the 60s but it has a nice ambience to it overall. There are a lot of passageways and rooms that makes it easy to get lost if you aren't familiar with the place.
My only gripe is that there are a few people at the holding area that are really rude. This one guy has a constant frown. He even scoffed one time when I asked for a receipt for the returns I made and said that he couldn't give me one because I didn't ask at the beginning. I decided not to get into it with this obviously very unhappy individual. Instead, next time I came up to him I asked for a receipt before he began. He scoffed and said I didn't need one because they automatically come off. I smiled in a very exaggerated manner and cheerfully said "not always, I would like one". Needless to say we are not going to be good friends.
Just one note. Sometimes they do "lose" movies/books that you return. If you are worried about that you can go directly up to them and have an automatic return. They can get really backlogged and it can take a while for a return to show up on your account. -
Review from Mary T.
7/29/2010
Like Jimmie Walker said, it's dyn-o-mite!
The library was on my Boston hit list, but toward the bottom. I actually thought I wouldn't have time to visit, but I wandered in looking to kill a little time before breakfast up the street. I entered the newer half of the library, the Johnson building, and wondered what all the fuss was about. To me, the Johnson building is nothing special; the McKim building is where it's at.
The Boston Public Library was the public library, the first publicly funded library and the first lending library in the country. It is majestic and beautiful. Full of statues, murals, inlaid floors, vaulted ceilings, marble and chandeliers - it should have been at the top of my list.
Bates Hall reading room in McKim is astounding, something I pictured on an Ivy League campus. Just walking in there makes you feel smart and want to learn something, anything. Rows of long wood tables, green lamps, beautiful tall windows, ornate vaulted ceilings and shelves of books everywhere, it's lovely.
But my favorite part of the BPL was the open-air courtyard, which reminded me of a little oasis in the city. The centerpiece of the courtyard is Dancing Bacchante and Infant Faun - a sculpture and fountain. Tables flank the perimeter of the courtyard; if I hadn't needed a more substantial breakfast, I would have grabbed a tea and muffin at the in-house cafe and basked in the beauty and serenity. This would be a perfect place to have a small function or wedding.
The next time I'm in Boston, I'm putting a tour of the McKim building at the top of my list; I suggest you do the same.Listed in: Bostonia, Culture Club, Reading is for Awesome People
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Review from Rebecca B.
Jamaica Plain, MA
5/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
I visit the BPL to do archival research as part of my job a lot. It's beautiful - I love the old building, and I always make sure to walk through the courtyard as I go about my business. The new part is not as pretty, but the librarians have always been helpful, and they have a massive amount of books there.
Also, the BPL website is great - I can reserve books from any branch, and have them delivered to my local branch for me to pick up. And since my local branch consists of one room with not too many books in it, that's a huge help. -
Review from C. C.
Boston, MA
11/22/2011
I had no idea a library could be sooo beautiful! I can't say that I have ever read a book here, but this place is like a museum as each room is a work of art and so full of history. Also has a lovely peaceful courtyard.
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Review from Ligaya T.
San Francisco, CA
3/27/2007
There is something grand and luxurious about being in immense structures. Stylistically, the Renaissance BPL is not totally aligned with my aesthetics but upon entrance I am filled with calm and reverence. I like that I can sit amongst leather bound books in a comfortable armchair in the second floor reading room and when my eyes leisurely raise upwards, pondering, my thoughts are not quickly disrupted by hovering ceiling. Oh the greatness of space!
As the largest municipal library in the nation, the main building and it's attached annex, holds a vast collection of rare and antique volumes, as well as popular contemporary texts and media. The librarians, though sometimes surly are quite knowledgeable and helpful.
Until my last visit, I wasn't aware of what a rule breaker I was but in the span of an hour I was politely told to take my feet off a chair, step away from the fountain and put away my water bottle. Still a visit pleases me immeasurably, up there with chocolate and warm laundry. And the best thing of all is that it's here for the whole world to explore!Listed in: The Lost Art of Study
