Boston Public Library
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Established in 1848, the Boston Public Library is a pioneer of public library service in America. It was the first large free municipal library in the United States, the first public library to lend books, the first to have a branch library, and the first to have a children’s room. As a City of Boston historic cultural institution, Boston Public Library today features a central library and twenty-five neighborhood branches, serving nearly 4 million visitors per year and millions more online. Boston Public Library is a department of the City of Boston, under the leadership of Mayor Michelle Wu.
The mission of the Library is focused on four core areas: reading and literacy, spaces and programs, reference and instruction, and special collections and cultural heritage. Our commitment to be ‘Free to All’ is carved into the façade of the Central Library in Copley Square, and we are proud to welcome everyone equally regardless of gender, race, national origin, sexual orientation, faith, or economic status.
Patrons who need interpretation services for any of the library’s programs should request them as early as possible through our Programs department at 617.859.2382 or programs@bpl.org.
To assist patrons when they visit, the Boston Public Library has several tools for public use. A wheelchair is available; please ask a security guard or check at an Information Desk if you need to use it during your stay. In addition, every public service desk has a handheld magnifier for use in the library. A sensory wall in the Children's Library on the second floor of the Boylston Street Building is designed to engage kids with sensory processing disorders, and the department holds sensory story times and programs with therapy dogs. Special adapted tours of the Children's Library can be developed for various groups. For more information, please contact the Children's Library at 617.859.2476.
Use of our facilities is free to all. You do not need a library card to visit the BPL, and you can request a guest pass at any service desk to use our computers on a temporary basis.
If you want to borrow from our collections, you’ll need to get a card. Many area shelters can provide official letters vouching for your eligibility for a Boston Public Library card.