Boston Public Library - Central Library
Public library · Back Bay
700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
Highlights
Historic library with Renaissance architecture & Sargent murals
Historic library with Renaissance architecture & Sargent murals
"An architecturally impressive public library that provides free access to exhibitions, reading rooms, and cultural programming year-round." - Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman Lauren Dana Ellman is a New York-based writer and editor who specializes in travel, lifestyle, food, and shopping content. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"There’s a lot to love about the Boston Public Library: It’s the oldest municipally-funded lending library in the country, its McKim Building is considered the masterwork of iconic Gilded Age architect Charles Follen McKim, and an ongoing calendar of free events all year-round means there is quite literally always a tour to go on, lecture to attend, or exhibit to peruse. Architecture nuts should reserve a spot on one of the thrice-weekly Art & Architecture Tours, which unlocks some of the premises’ lesser-known gems, including tile arches by famed Spanish builder Rafael Guastavino, and the first mural commission from John Singer Sargeant. The museum is home to all sorts of treasures beyond just books–including the lesser-known but entirely worthwhile Norman B. Leventhal Map Center, which houses over 250,000 geographic objects." - Paul Rubio, Todd Plummer
"Tell me: What’s this place all about? An architectural masterpiece, Boston Public Library’s central branch and its neighbor Copley Square are priority stops on any trip to Boston. The McKim building, with its Renaissance facade, took seven years to build, and the results continue to captivate the imaginations of visitors over a century later. Recent renovations modernized the back of the library, facing Boylston street, making it a dynamic hub for public radio and an asset to Bostonians who want a modern experience. With job-seeking resources, computer access, and classes, the library supports neighbors who want the world at their fingertips. This is more than just a library right? The library is an esteemed center of learning, and it’s also a community gathering place that serves as the keeper of Boston’s legacy. A serene sense of majesty permeates the building, furthered by its remarkable collection of notable works of art and literature. How can we enhance our experience? Daily art and architecture tours evoke a deeper appreciation for everything you see, from larger-than-life John Singer Sargent murals to golden Sienna marble along the grand staircase. The impeccable craftsmanship will be clear to even an untrained eye, but learning about the symbolism and process behind each design enriches the experience exponentially. Who comes here? Because of its central location in Copley Square and free entry, a lot of tourists take a five-minute walk through the building and make a quick exit. There’s so much more to see, though, and Boston residents often find a quiet perch to study or read in their favorite part of the library. Would you stick around after a quick stroll through? After a brief tour, you’ll want to find a way to spend more time here, and its public events extend an open invitation. The summer concert series in the courtyard is a delight; arrive early to snag a table." - Elizabeth Wellington
"The first large free public library in the nation, offering tours and events." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeare
"the debut of tea-infused cocktails inside the Boston Public Library" - Rachel Leah Blumenthal
