HQ Function

Serves as the primary administrative hub, main research library, a major lending library, and a significant cultural and community center for the City of Boston.

Notable Features:

The McKim Building (1895), a National Historic Landmark, features Bates Hall, the Puvis de Chavannes murals, a central courtyard, and John Singer Sargent murals. The Johnson Building (1972, renovated 2016) offers modern library services, event spaces, a business library, and a teen center.

Work Culture:

Dedicated to public service, intellectual freedom, and community engagement. Staff culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation in library services, and a commitment to equitable access for all patrons.

HQ Significance:

Historically significant as the first large free municipal library in the U.S. It's a premier research institution and an architectural masterpiece, symbolizing Boston's commitment to learning and culture.

Values Reflected in HQ: Free access to knowledge, community service, lifelong learning, cultural enrichment, preservation of heritage, and innovation in information services.

Location:

While its 26 physical locations primarily serve the residents of Boston and Massachusetts, the Boston Public Library has a significant global reach through its extensive digital collections and online resources. Digitized books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, and audio-visual materials are accessible to researchers and the public worldwide. The BPL also participates in interlibrary loan programs and collaborative digital projects, contributing to global scholarship and information access.

Street Address:

700 Boylston Street

City:

Boston

State/Province:

MA

Country:

USA