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Boston Public Library, Boston

4.8
#10 of 408 in Things to do in Boston
Library · Traveler Resource
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A book haven with more than 8.9 million books, Boston Public Library is the second-largest library in the United States after the Library of Congress. The library has 1.7 million rare manuscript holdings, including a handful of Shakespeare's quartos and a copy of the First Folio. Consider spending some time with a book in the McKim Building, soaking up the silence under a domed ceiling. Arrange your visit to Boston Public Library and discover more family-friendly attractions in Boston using our Boston road trip tool.
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Boston Public Library reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
4,072 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • First time here. Great stop. HUGE place. Some architectural marvels but there is a newer wing that is pretty cool too. Nice place to get out of the rain, snow, heat, cold for a while. 
    First time here. Great stop. HUGE place. Some architectural marvels but there is a newer wing that is pretty cool too. Nice place to get out of the rain, snow, heat, cold for a while.  more »
  • First time visit, absolutely stunning inside. So much history and culture, really great. Hopefully students aren't too disturbed by the visitors! 
    First time visit, absolutely stunning inside. So much history and culture, really great. Hopefully students aren't too disturbed by the visitors!  more »
Google
  • The "old" half of the library is very beautiful! The architecture, statues, and murals are all interesting and worth seeing. We loved finding names that we knew on the inside and outside walls and ceilings (Galileo, Emerson, etc.). The courtyard with the fountain is a very peaceful place to sit and relax. The "new" half is very nice and my kids really like the children's section. The selection of items is very large, and there are lots of signs to help you get to the section you want to visit.
  • Been to many libraries, and this is one of the most beautiful library I had ever come across, it is second to State Library Victoria, Melbourne in my personal preference. I loved the murals and thanks to the guide in each room I was able to fully understand those murals. There is an outdoor atrium where you can read a book while enjoying the natural light. I spent quite a long while here feeling the vibes. I love it, do check this place out!

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