If you’re looking for libraries in Boston, we’ve here to help. In this post, we’ve featured 10 top public libraries in Boston. These 10 are part of the 26 branches that make up Boston Public Library.
1. West End
The West End library has a rich history that began way back in 1896 when the Old West Church on the corner of Cambridge and Lynde was converted for library use. The library moved to its current location in 1968 and is worth visiting to see the stunning architectural design.
If you are thinking about dropping into the library, you’ll find a range of books to borrow in their catalog, and you’re bound to find something to suit your taste. You’ll find a great range of services here too. Reserve a computer, print and scan your documents or take part in events on offer that entertain and educate the whole family.
To find out more, get in touch with the West End Library today.
2. Central Library in Copely Square
This Library was the first that the Boston Public Library opened in 1854, then moved to its first purpose-built building in 1958. As the population grew, demand increased and what we see today is a beautiful library that houses Boston Public Libraries’ most extensive collection of books.
Why not take a tour of the library? You can visit on your own or book group tours to see some fantastic art and architecture. And that’s not all. Aside from having a dedicated children’s library and a community learning center, this library has many events to enjoy. There are also community rooms and conference rooms for rent.
You don’t want to miss the experience of visiting this library. Contact them today for more information.
3. North End
Some features of this library make it stand out. Visually, it has a stunning courtyard in the center of the building that holds plants which give it a tranquil feel. The building’s architecture is modeled after a Roman villa. This library first opened in 1913 and moved to its current location in 1965.
North End houses world language collections in Italian and Spanish. They have entrances with good accessibility, an after-hours book return, and computers and laptops with free Wi-Fi. There’s also a lecture hall available to reserve.
There are lots to love about this library. Check it out for yourself or call them today.
4. Brighton
In 2010, the Brighton library reopened after an 18-month closure because of extensive renovations. The result was an upgrade of equipment, better accessibility, and technology that reflected the local community’s expectations. Since then, this library has been an essential part of the Boston social fabric.
Today, you can find your next favorite read from their extensive book catalog, and if you need to do some printing or scanning, they’ve got you covered – and there’s free Wi-Fi. Plus, you can hire out a community room if you need it for an event, and you can take part in one of the many events available.
5. Connolly
The Connolly Library features eye-catching limestone architecture. The present building opened in 1932. In 1940, they renamed it after Monsignor Arthur T Connolly, a respected pastor of the Blessed Sacrament Church and a member of the Boston Public Library Board of Trustees.
If you’re looking for an extensive catalog of books to browse through or read in peace, the Connolly library is what you are looking for. Ride your bike into the library on a sunny day and use the provided bike racks, and while you are there, take advantage of the printing and scanning facilities.
Call the helpful librarians at the Connolly Library today to find out more.
6. East Boston
Architecturally designed, they opened the East Boston Library in 2013. It has dedicated spaces for teens, an early literacy nook, and a dedicated reading room. This library is an integral part of the local community and welcomes visitors from all over.
Enjoy the library’s outdoor spaces, and if you’re driving, there are plenty of spaces in the parking lot. You can take advantage of the quiet study rooms or use a computer or laptop equipped with free internet when inside. If you’re looking for some events, there are plenty of those here too, and you can also reserve a conference room.
This library could be the one you’re looking for. Contact them today.
7. Honan-Allston
The Honan-Allston library has a rich history dating back to 1889. Back then, horse-drawn carriages were used to deliver books out of Frank Howes drugstore on Franklin Street. The library has come a long way since then. The current location opened in 2001 and was renamed Honan-Allston in honor of the late city councilor Brian Honan, and it contains some unique features and events that are well worth checking out.
One of the unique features of this library includes a large community room with a baby grand piano! They also have an extensive book catalog, printing, and scanning facilities, and if you need some peace and quiet, you can reserve a private study room. There’s sure to be something at the Honan-Allston library to suit your taste.
Drop in today or give the helpful staff a call to find out more.
8. South Boston
The present location of the South Boston library was opened in 1957. It is well worth a look just for its large local history collection and its set of Boston maps on permanent display. It also houses a world language collection in Spanish.
Visit the library to enjoy free Wi-Fi. You can also use computers or laptops provided for you and print or scan your documents. They also have baby change tables for the parents of young ones and a dedicated parking lot, so you’ll never miss out on a parking spot. There are also a ton of events to check out.
If you want to learn more about what’s on offer, contact them today.
9. Grove Hall
The first library in the Grove Hall neighborhood opened with a mere 200 books in May 1898 at the rear of a drugstore on the corner of Warren Street and Haynes Park. The current building opened in 2009 and now has an extensive catalog of books. Grove Hall locals love this library, and visitors are always welcome.
You can rent some exciting community spaces at the Grove Hall library. They include a Jazz room on a mezzanine, Study and meeting rooms, and an ample community space shared with a community center. Grove Hall also has an after-hours book return, quiet study rooms, and free Wi-Fi.
Call or email the library to learn more.
10. Adams Street
The Adams Street neighborhood’s first library service was first provided in 1875 and ran out of a delivery station on Walnut Street. The present branch opened in 1951, and after a fundraising effort, a portion of the library’s yard was transformed into a reading garden. This library is very popular among locals and has unique features and events worth checking out.
The reading garden provides programs throughout spring, summer, and fall. There is a large multi-purpose room available for community groups, neighborhood organizations, and businesses. You can also enjoy an adult book discussion group, children’s story times, and printing and scanning facilities.
This library is well worth a look. Come and see for yourself or contact them today for more information.