Boston Public Library, Central Library
Boston Public Library
America’s first large free public library. The vaulted ceiling of the Bates Hall reading room and the Renaissance-style courtyard in the McKim Building are free to visit.
Located on the west side of Copley Square, the McKim Building was completed in 1895 and is a landmark of American Renaissance architecture. The second-floor Bates Hall is about 66 m long, with rows of green reading lamps beneath its arched ceiling, making it Boston’s most photogenic interior. The staircase features murals by Puvis de Chavannes, and the third-floor Sargent Gallery displays the “Triumph of Religion” mural series by Sargent. The central courtyard imitates the arcades of a Roman palace and is a peaceful place to sit. Entry is free, and the library offers free official tours (check the website for times). Some areas are open on Sundays. Please keep quiet when taking photos. Take the Green Line to Copley station.
Opening hours
Mon–Thu 09:00–20:00; Fri–Sat 09:00–17:00; Sun 11:00–17:00 (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Trinity Church, Boston
- View Boston (Prudential Tower)
- Newbury Street
- Charles River Esplanade
- Boston Common / Public Garden / Beacon Hill
- Freedom Trail
- Massachusetts State House
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology