(617) 536-5400
700 Boylston St
(Exeter Street)
Boston,
MA
02117
42.3494
-71.0792
Neighborhoods: Back Bay, Back Bay East
Hours:
Mon-Thu 9am-9pm
Fri-Sat 9am-5pm
Sun 1pm-5pm
Parking:
Street; Lot
Boston Public Library
What People Are Saying About Boston Public Library
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short – An architecturally impressive Copley Square complex combining the 1895 Charles Follen McKim building and a 1972 addition (designed by Philip Johnson), the BPL remains a cultural hub in the Back Bay. The older building features murals by noted artists de Chavannes, Abbey and Sargent. The Bates Hall reading room, in the restored McKim building, is two-thirds the length of a football field and features 15 arched windows, a marble floor and built-in bookcases.
06/01/07
As good as it gets
by elaineks
The library representa all that good civic architecture can be. Each turn of the head, each stair landing opens up new delights. Go and see it for yourself.
- Pros: Everything ... and it is FREE
- Cons: None
08/03/02
A Must-See
by jane_doe2
One of my favorite places in Boston. There's history and art and architecture. If none of these appeal to you, go just to see the spectacular fountain in the courtyard. The inside is one of the most beautiful buildings in Boston and it's easy to imagine all of the people who walked thru its halls over the centuries. If you have extra time, it's a wonderful place to take a siesta in the courtyard.
- Pros: Beautiful fountain, Stunning reading room, Living history
The Details on Boston Public Library
The Extras:
Free art and architecture tours are offered on Sundays at 2pm, Mondays at 2:30pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6pm, and Fridays and Saturdays at 11am. Meet at the Dartmouth Street entrance.
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