Historic Library Tour

Join a public guided tour of the Boston Public Library’s Central Library in Copley Square. The approximately one-hour tour introduces the library’s history as the first large free municipal library in the United States, along with the art and architecture of its historic building.

Tours are limited to 15 people per session and require registration. Organized groups and parties of more than five people cannot join public tours; they should contact the Visitor Experience Office about group-visit options.

When: November 5–19; the page identifies the November 5 session as Thursday, November 5, 2026.

Showtimes: November 5 at 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM; November 6 at 10:00 AM; November 9 at 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM; November 10 at 10:00 AM; November 12 at 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM; November 13 at 10:00 AM; November 16 at 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM; November 17 at 5:30 PM; November 18 at 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM; and November 19 at 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM.

Run time: One hour.

Registration: Required. Registration for the November 5 session is closed.

Capacity: Fifteen people per session.

Ages: Suitable for adults, college students, older adults, visitors, and young adults ages 20–34.

Language: English.

Accessibility: Disability accommodations and language services may be requested through the Visitor Experience Office. At least two weeks’ notice is requested to arrange accommodations.

Tickets: Price not available.

Venue: Central Library in Copley Square, 700 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116.

Contact: Visitor Experience Office, visit@bpl.org, +1-617-859-2216.

All dates: Nov 5 at 10:00 AM & 5:30 PM · Nov 6 at 10:00 AM · Nov 9 at 10:00 AM & 5:30 PM · Nov 10 at 10:00 AM · Nov 12 at 10:00 AM & 5:30 PM · Nov 13 at 10:00 AM · Nov 16 at 10:00 AM & 5:30 PM · Nov 17 at 5:30 PM · Nov 18 at 10:00 AM & 5:30 PM · Nov 19 at 10:00 AM & 5:30 PM