Boston Public Library - Central Library

Incredible space. If you love books, art, history, architecture, cool vibes and unique spaces…then this is the place for you. I highly recommend just spending a full day exploring. From the gorgeous and traditional library with the famous green lamp room to the modern addition that actually feels like a mall or an airport, there’s literally a space for everyone. Just pick your vibe and sit down with a book, your laptop, a cup of coffee, alone or with a friend and just read, study, work or my favorite… people watch! One part feels like a classic museum that you just happen to get to hang out in and the other part feels like a modern museum that you also just happen to get to hang out in! The food area with the stage is also super convenient if you’re hungry. Best part? It’s a public library so it’s all free! Definitely a place to experience in person and not just read about. Highly recommend! Enjoy! I know we did 👍

Walking into the Boston Public Library for the first time felt like stepping into another world — one where knowledge, beauty, and history all collide in the most magical way. It’s not just a library; it’s an experience, a sanctuary, and a true cultural treasure. From the moment I entered the McKim Building, I was completely awestruck. The Renaissance-style architecture, grand staircases, arched ceilings, and murals by Edwin Abbey and John Singer Sargent — every detail felt like it belonged in a European palace. The Bates Reading Room, with its iconic green lamps and cathedral-like hush, took my breath away. Sitting there, surrounded by quiet thinkers and the weight of stories from centuries past, felt almost sacred. But what moved me most was how accessible and welcoming it all felt. The library isn’t just a monument to knowledge — it’s alive. Locals reading in the courtyard, students studying in the reading rooms, tourists marveling at the art and architecture… it’s a beautiful blend of old-world elegance and modern-day community. The courtyard, with its gentle fountain and open sky, is one of the most peaceful places I’ve ever sat with a book and a coffee. The Boston Public Library reminded me that public spaces can be powerful — places that inspire, connect, and elevate us. I left feeling both small in the best way and deeply grateful that such a place exists for everyone to enjoy.

The Boston Public Library isn’t just a place to grab a book—it’s a whole experience. Open until 8 PM during the middle of the week, with no entrance fees. Walking into the historic McKim Building feels like being transported to medieval Europe like you are in ancient Rome. The grand staircases, stone arches, and dramatic murals make it feel more like a museum or old cathedral than a public library. One of the highlights is the Bates Hall and surrounding areas —hands down one of the most beautiful reading rooms in the country. With its high ceilings, rows of green reading lamps, and long wooden tables, it looks like something out of a movie. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect for reading, studying, or just soaking in the atmosphere. What’s great is how the library blends that old-world charm with modern touches. The renovated Johnson Building adds a fresh, updated space with cozy seating, digital resources, and even a café right in the courtyard. It’s super family-friendly, stroller-friendly, and great for all ages. Whether you're into architecture, art, or just want a calm place to hang out, the Boston Public Library is a gem. It’s free, it’s beautiful, and it’s right in the heart of the city. Totally worth a visit—even if you’re not a bookworm. They even have a cafe on the 1st floor! Parking is tricky but its right on Copley square, so well connected on the green line.

Absolutely beautiful building, much more than a library as there are great architectural features to view. We spent some time walking around, even our kids were amazed. There is a great outdoor courtyard in the center where you can sit, read, eat, relax, whatever you want. Must see.

Came to visit on my walk to Fenway and based on my rekindled love of books, I wanted to see what a big city public library would have to offer. A couple weeks earlier I had seen a video on Instagram showing a Boston library that was insanely beautiful inside and hoped this would be it. However when we first entered off what we figured was the main entrance by the Boston Marathon Finish Line, we didn't initially see anything that matched the video. It was very nice and spacious (3 stories) split into different sections with plenty of signage to different areas, but it was too modern to be what I saw in the video. We considered just leaving but thankfully I opted to ask one of the librarians about where I could find the library in the video. It was a part of this same library, just in a different section through a separate hallway. Definitely worth a visit. This whole other part of the library is very beautiful and if I lived nearby, I'd definitely be coming here to read. They also have a bar/cafe area inside this area where you can enjoy a bevy and book. Outside gardens were filled with people reading and working. The huge inside reading rooms were completely filled, it was almost surreal to see that many people just sitting quietly working/reading. The inside art and architecture was also quiet a sight that gave it's own ambiance. There were so many different areas, nooks and crannies, to get lost in a good book. Definitely worth a visit and just make sure to find the non modern portion, just make sure to ask or use one of the other entrances to the library.

The Boston Public Library – Central Library in Copley Square is not just a library—it’s a cultural and architectural treasure in the heart of the city. Here’s why it’s a must-visit: Stunning architecture: The historic McKim Building features grand marble staircases, murals by John Singer Sargent, and the beautiful Bates Hall reading room with its vaulted ceilings and green lamps. Courtyard vibes: The Italian-style courtyard is peaceful and picturesque—perfect for reading, sipping a coffee from the café, or just enjoying the ambiance. Modern meets classic: Alongside the historic side, the renovated Boylston Street Building has sleek design, open workspaces, and tech-friendly zones. Free exhibitions: Rotating art and history displays make every visit fresh and interesting. Family-friendly: A large children’s wing and teen zone make it great for all ages.

What a remarkable building and interior. The art , paintings and statues alone are worth the visit . The more we walked around the more we discovered . In the center of the library is an open outdoor space with garden and fountain and a lot of seating areas to enjoy the marvelous architecture . Upstairs main staircases are grand , reading rooms are vast and quiet and everyone is respectful to their surroundings . I could go on and on and spend hours here . Certainly one of the highlights of Boston

The place is amazing! I only wish they had like daily tickets for foreigners who would like to spend some hours here reading alongside other people/students. The building is unforgettable and the kind after you measure every library in the world you visit after with. As someone who is a student of Serbian language and litterature in Europe, this was one of the few places in US where I truly felt familiar with and connected. I'm sure that's because the books have their own "vibe" and seeing a place that withholds this much history, beauty and books inside, my education gut will never be the same.

Absolutely stunning!!! I was in aweeeee the whole time I walked through this place! Take a tour with me of the Boston Public Library It was founded in 1848 and opened in 1854 as the 1st large free municipal library in the U.S. It contains many rare books/documents such as medieval manuscripts, 1st edition folios by William Shakespeare, John Adams' personal library, and original music scores by Mozart, Prokofiev, & other composers. The original McKim Building, is named after architect Charles Follen McKim. He promoted his masterpiece as a "palace for the people." The building has a sloping red tile roof with green copper edging and gutters. The 2 large statues represent Art and Science. Three huge arches form the entrance, flanked by clusters of branching wrought-iron lanterns protecting bronze doors. When the library 1st opened,.. you had to be 16 years old to enter. Once you walk into the entryway, you'll see white marble floors, inlays of zodiac symbols, and the names of 30 famous Bostonians on the vaulted ceiling. Fossil shells are embedded in the marble, which was quarried in France. Where the stairs split, you'll see two enormous lions carved from single blocks of marble. Each of them commemorates a Massachusetts Civil War infantry regiment. Past the lions you'll see murals by French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes (his only mural on display outside of France) depicting an aspect of science or literature: poetry, history, science, and philosophy. Continue to the Bates Reading room with its barrel-vaulted ceilings. The room itself is 218 feet long and 42.5 feet wide. The Abbey Room contains murals depicting "The Castle of Maidens" from the story of Sir Galahad's Quest of the Holy Grail. Venture out to the courtyard garden. The statue you see is not the original Bacchante created by Frederick MacMonnies and given to the museum by its architect, McKim. The original sculpture caused an uproar among "proper" Bostonians, who objected to the naked figure and its promotion of the consumption of wine. Next to the McKim Building is the more modern 1972 Johnson Building.

If you are in Boston the public library is a must see destination. It is the most beautiful library I have ever seen. It's a stop you can make for free; though they do have a tea room and gift shop if you wish to explore beyond checking out the library. The sculptures, murals, and architecture on display left me in awe. The outside courtyard is tranquil and transportive. I could sit there enjoying the atmosphere for hours. It's very cozy and special. I've been here twice and look forward to going again.

Boston Public library is one of the most beautiful libraries I've ever seen! This is easy to pop into during your travels to see the vast beauty: The grand staircase The great hall Hidden garden Visitors are welcome and it's FREE! Take beautiful photos and continue on with your day:) All you need is a solid 30-45 minutes here to be in awe of the architecture.

One of the prettiest and largest libraries I've been to! It's the third largest library in the US. The entrance was so grand and the library is historic (founded in 1848). I was visiting Boston and had this on my list to stop by. I was enthralled by the architecture; it looks more like an art museum than a library. We stopped by the children's library first. I was surprised it was on the smaller side compared to the smaller libraries I've been to; there were plenty of toys to keep my infant and toddler entertained. They had an area for the crawlers; there were reading nooks, board books, and sensory boards on the side of the walls. There was a stage area with a large throne and some seats; a small section with computers were available for use. We walked around the library after and noticed a ton of enthralled tourists also. I noticed many people using the library and studying; I am not sure how they can because there were so many people walking around and talking. We walked by a bar that looked like a speakeasy; I'd have to say, never seen a bar in a library! It's called the Map Room Tea Lounge which serves craft cocktails and small bites. Definitely looks pretty cool. There is the Courtyard Tea room that serves afternoon high tea when you book in advance; a coffee shop called Newsfeed Cafe, which has sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and tea. We walked by the famous Bates Hall and it was super packed with studiers. The hall was massive and beautiful. There's a courtyard with a water fountain that reminded me of a fancy private school they depict on television. Overall, if you're a fan of history, architecture, art, and books, I highly recommend checking this place out.

BPL is absolutely stunning! But if you want to study there the amount of tourists who comes and goes is a bit distracting Also there are no outlets in most of the places

As someone from California, the Boston Public Library is possibly the most beautiful library I've ever been to. It's absolutely gorgeous and has the look of an art museum. It's also very practical in terms of having calm, quiet study spaces, as well as resources as materials (for both tourists and local library-goers). It's crazy how one library can have so many different styles and design aspects. There are a high level of tourists visiting, which I imagine can be annoying for people actually studying or trying to work, but this library is truly a sight to see.

Now THAT is a library! What an absolute treasure. The building itself is amazing. I had very little time to peruse the magnificence of the place, but ALLLL the adjectives do not do it justice. Next time I am in town, it will be my FIRST stop instead of my last.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Boston Public Library is a must see. There's two main buildings, the McKim and the Boylston Street one. If you're an architect enthusiast, definitely check out the McKim building, home to the picturesque Bates Hall and famous courtyard. What's cool about this building too, is as much as it is historic, it's still equally as functional. So definitely snap your pics, and take a stroll around, but be mindful that this is still a library. Proceed with caution as there are hundreds of Bostonians studying and working. :) This library offers many events as well, too many to list in this. Some are Outspoken Saturdays hosted by WGBH, author talks, exhibits, various art pieces, a monthly book sale, tours, and more. Definitely visit the website for a fuller list. The BPL also has many places to grab a bite to eat. There's the Newsfeed Cafe, the Courtyard Tea Room, and the Maproom Tea Lounge. I've only gotten food at the cafe but it was good. I got lucky and caught the book sale hosted by the City-Wide Friends of the BPL. This was cool as softcover books were mostly $1. They also had movies and cds. You can take the green line to get here, as Copley Station is right in front of the library. It's also walking distance from historic Newbury Street as well as the Prudential Center. This is a must see when in Boston!

My love for books is only slightly edged out by my love for great cocktails so when you pair that with a library that rivals that of a European art museum and a bar that gives speakeasy vibes, this place is screaming of a 5-star review. There's a more genteel tearoom for pinkies up ladies that serves those little crustless sandwiches and a variety of teas, but we opted for the Map Room Tea Lounge and their cocktails, Stolen Moments--btw, such a perfect cocktail name for a library--and the Gin and Juice. Both were delicious and went well with the smoked salmon tartine, but I'm still kicking myself for not getting the Yuzu Mimosa. Go already and make this a stop on your Boston tour.

This place is massive!!! I only visited once, but you could tell there are two parts to the library. I entered from Dartmouth and when you enter here you it's more like a museum. I felt like I was transported in a European museum and was wondering why admission was free. Lol. As I made my way through the library there was an obvious modern addition to the library with a ton of books and just a little more lively with information desks, more tables and such. Or if you enter from Boylston this is the modern part of the library. There is also a courtyard which is beautiful. There's a library cafe and tea garden. Unfortunately when I visited they were closed. I'll have to come back again and visit them. Exit Copley off the T.

Beautiful library with historic renaissance murals, architecture, sculptures, and galleries. A very iconic place for tourists and a great place for photos. The best time to go would be an hour or two before closing because it isn't that busy or pact so you can get photos without people in the background. Be mindful that there are people studying and reading and using the library space as it is intended for. There are 2 spots that I went to which would be the entrance above the stairs with the 2 lions and the other is the third floor gallery. The third floor gallery is very ominous and the murals depict heaven and hell which were super interesting. The galleries provide you with a booklet describing each panel. Overall this is a very large library, there is a historic gallery part and another part that is more modern with a lot more study spaces.

This was one of my favorite stops in Boston! The new library is bright, full of color, and has a little coffee shop. The old library is GORGEOUS. I loved walking around and stopped in one of the rooms to read for a bit. I also did the architecture tour, which I highly recommend. It is free and took about an hour. I learned so much and our tour guide was so knowledgeable and passionate. Get there early and get your ticket for the tour because they only allow a certain number of people.

Outstanding library. Truly a breathtaking public work architecture. To think that this is free and open to the public is incredible. I highly recommend visiting here when in Boston, especially a free tour of library. It's no question why this is one of the most beautiful libraries in the country. It very much rivals the library of Congress or New York public library. It truly does give you an amazing feel of what it like to live in Boston and the highly academic nature of the environment. I would come here again!!

When I have visitors from out of town, I always make sure I show them the Boston Public Library (or BPL for short). Among the things that the state got right, the BPL is one of them for sure - at the intersection of modern and historical architecture, you'll find the beautiful open courtyard. If you're a local resident, make sure to get a free membership - you can book rooms and you can print for free at the tech central regardless of quantity! It feels great to see our state tax visibly work for us lol. Perfect place to study, take a stroll, or even just relax.

I'm out of words to how beautiful this library is!!! For all book nerds this library is a dream. It's free admission- see all the rooms and different sections for children books, etc. huge library. Every kind of book they have it here. There's a Tea Room and a Bar area for cocktails. There's also galleries- so many rooms! Beautiful courtyard. This is a must visit when in Boston!

Beautiful to visit! The only down side is there are homeless people sitting inside to stay warm, other than that it is a beautiful library with art walls.

Beautiful architecture, Newsfeed cafe, gift shop, study rooms, etc. all worth visiting.

The Boston Public Library is beautiful. I had to stop by while I was visiting Boston. I loved the beautiful rooms and the history.

What a STUNNING public library. I thoroughly enjoyed walking around and appreciating the paintings, architecture, and courtyard. Absolutely beautiful spot to come roam around, read, or study. Functional and beautiful - best I've seen.

Gorgeous. Worth a visit, even if you don't live in Boston. This place blew my socks off - and I'm an avid library explorer. Functional and beautiful, the founders of this library got it right.

It was on our daughter's list to visit and despite our limited time, so glad we visited. Beautiful architecture, courtyard, and reading room! NOTE: Compared to the NY Public Library in which you have to show a reservation or permit to conduct research, the reading room is open to the public.

Overall rating: 3.75 stars Food: High tea, finger sandwiches, scones, small bites There is the tea room and the map room. The map room is darker and seems towards drinks and intimacy The tea room faces the courtyard and is directly out of a Bridgerton book! We got tea for two, each person costing $65 Texture: the scones were on the dryer end but nothing a little tea couldn't fix Pricing: $65 per person plus extra if cocktails were ordered Ambiance: The ambiance is open and airy, spacious and bright Seating & Parking: no parking since it is located in the Boston public library but plenty of seats both inside the library and in the tea rooms Service: the service was brief but thorough, they went into the history of the library and ran us through what each tier of the tea was Bathrooms: men and women Final comments: a sophisticated spot for high tea

We took the free library tour and it was amazing! There is so much history at the library and our guide was so knowledgeable about it all. The original section of the library is the focus of the tour and it's so beautiful. I was surprised at how busy the library was, too, and it's FREE for everyone to use! The paintings and murals are done by some very famous artists and the woodwork and sculptures are beautiful, as is the architecture of the building. We spent a few minutes in the courtyard on a beautiful day and it was full of patrons. The tour also included a few minutes spent in the new section of the library pointing out some art and important areas of that building. Overall I definitely recommend the tour and just checking out the library in general.

The Boston central library in Copley Square is a great tourist stop and a clean, safe place to study for locals. First of all, it is free as a tourist attraction. Secondly, there is beautiful art and architecture to see there. Thirdly, and unlike many major libraries in other cities, it is clean and safe and not overrun with homeless people. According to the library website, the library was founded in 1848. The website also explains that the Central Library in Copley Square has two buildings: the historic McKim building (1895), designed by architect Charles Follen McKim, and the Boylston Street building (1972, formerly called the Johnson Building), designed by Philip Johnson. The McKim building has historical artwork by Daniel Chester French, John Singer Sargent, and others, as well as the Bates Hall reading room. The Boylston Street Building was renovated by William Rawn Associates into a modern facility and reopened in 2016. It seems like the reading rooms are very popular and getting a seat to study may be difficult for locals. Additionally, you need to be able to deal with the distraction of tourists coming by to look at the library while you are trying to work. Otherwise, it seems like a nice, clean place to study. The library website claims that it has more than 23 million holdings "including books, maps, manuscripts, letters, drawings, and other original works dating back as early as the 10th century. Notable items include first edition folios by William Shakespeare, original music scores from Mozart to Prokofiev's "Peter and the Wolf;" and the personal library of President John Adams." It's circulating collection also has 1.6 million items including "books, DVDs, and audiobooks, as well as downloadable e-books, audiobooks, and magazines, and streaming media." For tourists, they do have tours for those who want a more structured visit. For both locals and tourists, their webiste features three dining venues: the Courtyard Tea Room, Map Room Tea Lounge, and Newsfeed Café at the Central Library in Copley Square. As of the time of writing of this review, the Courtyard Tea Room offers a 90 minute high tea and allows for a 15 minute grace period--reservations are required as they book up (Wednesday-Sunday: 11am, 1pm, 3pm). Whether you are a local looking for a nice place to do some research or studying or a tourist looking for a low pressure, free, and self-guided attraction, the Boston public library is a nice place to visit.

The Boston Public Library was absolutely stunning. The architecture and history here is unparalleled. There's a modern entrance where most of the books are kept, and then there's the main historic entrance with access to the courtyard, tea room, giant study rooms, and more. This was truly a gorgeous part of Boston that I'm so glad we got to see. The ceilings, the lions, the marble, the intricate details in every single thing... what a wonderful place to visit!

Beautiful and serene place! I went to turn my library e-card into a physical one and the front desk was incredibly helpful. I loved being able to choose different designs for how my card would look. The library itself is beautiful and the courtyard was breathtaking. The library was quite busy with many people having already taken seats but I was able to find a couch. Despite it all being a little overwhelming at first as I normally don't go to this library, there were ample signs and directions everywhere so that I could find what I needed with ease. Definitely take a stop here if you're nearby. Support your libraries!!!

Higy recommend stopping by. I don't know the history of this building but I could imagine films be shot here. The library felt like a museum!

Beautiful place to spend a few hours. This is a must see in Boston. Such a big beautiful place full of students, young and old.

My wife was intent on checking out this library after reading about things to do in Boston. She mentioned it was the oldest library in the US. After checking out the Red Sox game, we rushed over to get a glimpse before it closed. I am glad that we did. The museum is quite the spectacle. Although I didn't spend a lot of time there I was quite impressed. It reminded me of a palace! Perhaps if this was my regular library I would make it a point to read more! Also, we were able to make use of the outlet to charge up our phones for a couple of minutes! Definitely worth checking out, even for a few minutes.

I am totally and enthusiastically stoked. High tea at their Tea lounge was fully booked for 3 pm. I said we came from Hawaii. He said speak to the lady with the tablet, We're in!!! Oh joy!!! I'm low on battery so will continue to post later tonight. Not like libraries where children come to borrow books. More like a university library with tourists visiting and snapping photos of the artwork. The courtyard lacks color but a nice place to sit in the fresh chill air. You can spend hours in here and it's free. Our timing was great as we opened our umbrellas for the first time in 4 days and sought shelter in here.

The best (and oldest) public library in the country! It's a must see/do when you come to Boston. Fridays are a flood of activity with the WGBH live broadcast here. They have a gorgeous courtyard to sit and read. Be sure to check out the Sergeant murals and the beautiful architecture in the old part...then see the newly constructed part. They even have small concerts in the nice weather. Don't miss the cafe...or the high tea / bar. If you're a book lover this is a must while visiting Boston. A true treasure.

This was the highlight of our trip. I suggest going between 6 to 8 pm when the library is quiet. If you'd like to buy merch or eat at the cafe that closes at 5 pm. The building is utterly beautiful and full of murals.

My favorite thing to do when visiting a new city is to visit the public library. I don't know when or how I started but I love visiting new libraries.. I am so glad I stopped into this one. It is huge and beautiful! Some of the spaces are reminiscent of an art gallery with ornate paintings and fixtures and of course its full of things to read and places to read them. I wandered the historic side of the library for at least an hour, there is so much to read and see. Then I went over to the newer side where it is modern updated and feels clean. I didn't spend much time here but I can absolutely see myself getting lost in the stacks. I didn't really interact with any of the staff so I can't speak to anything there but they keep the place really clean and beautiful and that's really all I can ask for.

If you're a local or just visiting, check out this Library. There are numerous artworks, marvelous decor, and history to soak in! Pro Tip: There are tours you can take, so I would check out their site as there are designated times and dates -free on certain ones! Check out their cafe for a quick snack and coffee to keep your study fuel going. Explore the super quiet to a super open area with bustling people; whatever your preference is for getting work done or studying, you can find a great spot while being able to charge too! The front desk staff is amiable and welcoming, so if you have any questions feel free to approach them, as they've always been kind whenever I visit.

Gorgeous architecture and courtyard! I've seen wedding pictures here and always wanted to visit. It's free and no rsvp required, hence it's pretty crowded on weekends. But it's nice to see people can just come in to rest and take their time to read. Such a wonderful spot when the city is full of hustle and bustle. The high tea menu looks great and it looks out the courtyard.

As I was doing my research on Boston, the library kept popping up. So I was intrigued and placed it on my Yelp Collection list. I also noticed it was near one of the Old Town Trolley stops... matter of fact, right across the street. Upon entering this quiet and historical building, is a list of the rooms located on the multiple floors. I just primarily stayed on the 1st and 2nd floors. The most impressive room with the study room with the long tables and the green lamps. The second area is the courtyard which offers tables for eating, working or chatting with friends. The third area is located right off of the main entrance..... the Grand Staircase to the 2nd floor. Incredible. Just remember to quiet your phone and your conversation. Defiantly, check this historical library out.

Absolutely handsdown goregous library! I felt like I could spend days just strolling the halls and following all the stairs I found. So close to so many resturaunts too! If youre in the area and waiting for your table, or want to take a quick stroll after lunch I would definitely make this my togo spot!

A gorgeous library with a silent room to study in. Tours are available especially for those who want to learn more about the history. There is also the tea room where you can partake in high tea, this is about $65/person.

I love libraries! As a librarian, it is my duty to visit at least one while on vacation/out-of-town. BPL was my number one choice and I walked here on a Wednesday morning. It's a huge building and I would describe it as grand and historical. Technically, it's comprised of two: the McKim Building and the Johnson Building, which are attached and interconnected with interior passageways. I walked around a bit and took it all in. My favorite parts were the courtyard, the reading room (iconic green lamps, most of the photos on Google are of this room), and the lions in the gallery on the stairs. They have a solid collection of books and a neat staircase with the words "the plot thickens". I wanted to go on their art and architecture tour, but their website shares that it's only offered on Fridays and Saturdays so maybe on my next visit. I definitely recommend visiting BPL when in Boston as it is a wonderful library!

Every crevice of this library is AMAZING!!! Shame on me! I've been to Boston so many times and have passed by this library and never took the time to check it out! I recommend you take the time to appreciate this place. By the way, can only get a library card here and check out books if you are a resident. Otherwise, just embrace the beautiful views!!

Definitely worth stopping in. A beautiful old historic library. Everything you want a library to be. They have a modern part with a cafe but definitely go stop in to the historical galleries.

This library is beautiful. It's huge with so much history. I really enjoyed walking around and enjoying the architecture. I browsed thru some of the books and spotted a few old books about Armenian history and travel. That's was cool.. there are many desks and chairs to sit and study or work or just browse through books of interest. Quiet and therapeutic. The courtyard is also very nice with seating areas to enjoy. They also offer afternoon tea time in a beautiful setting. Reservations are recommended. Overall it's a must see while in Boston.

Upon looking up ideas for my Boston trip, the iconic Boston Public Library was noted several times. My friend and I did the Old Town trolley so we promptly exited at the Copley Square stop to walk around Back Bay and see some notable historic spots. The library itself is truly magnificent and a testament of craftsmanship years ago. They offer tours or you can respectfully walk around to soak in the sights. There's also a Courtyard Tea Room that offers exquisite high tea but seating only Wednesday-Sunday in time frame of 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm but read on their website the Tea Lounge has a bar where walk-ins are welcome. The library is truly a gem within Boston.

This library is beautiful! My siblings and I visited this library about an hour before closing time. Initially, we thought we entered the correct entrance. It turns out there's a modern section of the library, and one where history of the library was preserved. Just ask a librarian staff member to point you in the direction of this library's courtyard and Bates Hall. Their courtyard was beautiful. Lovely natural lights, tranquil water fountain, and charming architectural columns and lighting. As we continued to walk past the courtyard and up their staircase, there were lion sculptures and detailed mural paintings throughout. Some of the paintings had religious messages to them. Bates Hall was something out of a Harry Potter movie. It was grand. But, I did have to stay quiet while taking pictures here, as there were people actually studying. So, be mindful and respectful. Take your pictures peacefully here. Overall, the BPL is worth checking out. It's free to visit too.

Boston tries very, very hard to market it's history and monuments - overall unimpressed. There are two parts to this library - a new renovated component and the older/historic area. Such a shame that the main reading room is open to tourists. BPL should take a page from The New York Public Iibrary's Rose Reading room at the main Bryant Park branch and preserve a section that is just for studying. The room functions as neither a study area nor a tourist's welcome center. You sit there and tourists are constantly walking by gazing and taking pictures. What kind of peace is that? There is none. The only meaningful alternative is to sit in the other newly renovated area, which isnt as inviting as doesn't have a sitting area like this. The librarian sitting outside the room, also definitively agreed, that none of the reading rooms in that older building are really suitable for studying and that it's unfortunate that tourists basically roam all over - can't avoid them. FYI: The bathrooms don't reflect the funding they invested to clearly make the newer building as pretty as it is. Think: public middle school bathroom from childhood. But as a plus (as a public health measure), all bathrooms seem to have sharps containers (I guess for those without housing living nearby/outside the library). Also, on brand for how everything in Boston closes promptly at 5pm or is closed on weekends, the cafe on the floor doesn't open on Mondays. I guess people don't have the need to purchase anything from there on Mondays.

This was my first tea time experience and it did not disappoint. Beautiful atmosphere and really yummy food. Go hungry because although they are smaller servings, it is extremely filling.

Not as awe-inspiring as the New York Public Library, but still worth your attention. Some beautiful photo ops, but surprisingly, compared to NYPL, it's harder to get good photos without crowds obscuring your shots. Free. Pretty. Stop to see the murals and architecture. I spent probably half an hour here. But on another note, I felt guilty entering the main reading room because I felt like I was intruding on all the people actually there to study (there were a lot of us milling around). This is not a huge space, so extra people snapping photos, no matter how quietly, are likely noticeable.

Beautiful library but shhhhh lots of studying going on. It's a nice quick walk through to see.

Really gorgeous library. I loved the architecture and it was beautiful. I liked both the indoor and outdoor area. I would definitely love to study here if I was student. It's so relaxing. I also saw that there was a high tea place that I would love to try it next time. It looked really nice.

Tourist review: Iconic architecture. The reading room and grand stairway are even more impressive in person than they are in pictures. There's a new and and old section- so if you enter on the modern side you may think you're in the wrong place for a min, but you're good. Just keep walking. Check out the other less famous rooms as well- and remember to look up! That said I don't know how people can study in there, it can get very crowded/busy.