Boston Public Library - Central Library — Attraction in Boston

Really beautiful library, really awful security guard. Must have been on a power trip - I’m on vacation with my friends and wanted to show them one of my (what used to be) favorite places, but instead of enjoying the library, we were harassed and followed by a rude security guard.

I had checked the photo policy online ahead of time (and I have taken personal photos here before), but while everyone around us was taking pictures, I was singled out and told I couldn’t be doing that. For reference, I was not in any walkways or obstructing the way for others to get past, I had no tripod or flash and was not taking photos of any library patrons, just a few pictures of the architecture and some with my friends. I was pushed to the desk to get a “special events” card, and I asked the person at the desk if they could clarify if personal photos were allowed. I was told yes, and proceeded to visit the library. That security guard harassed us all the way up to the third floor and tried telling us that we needed to leave. When I tried to (politely, quietly, and calmly) explain that the front desk told us we were fine taking personal photos, he proceeded to talk over us and started yelling. And then when he finally let me get a word in, he didn’t believe I was telling the truth about what I was told at the front desk (that he sent me to and watched me talk to!). He finally stopped trying to throw us out, but was stalking us the entire time and was saying rude things loudly over his phone or walkie. I’m a very cautious and respectful person, so this treatment was extremely uncalled for. Really ruined the experience for us and I can’t say I’d ever want to go back now. Attached is one of the photos that got...

One of the prettiest and largest libraries I've been to! It's the third largest library in the US. The entrance was so grand and the library is historic (founded in 1848).

I was visiting Boston and had this on my list to stop by. I was enthralled by the architecture; it looks more like an art museum than a library. We stopped by the children's library first. I was surprised it was on the smaller side compared to the smaller libraries I've been to; there were plenty of toys to keep my infant and toddler entertained. They had an area for the crawlers; there were reading nooks, board books, and sensory boards on the side of the walls. There was a stage area with a large throne and some seats; a small section with computers were available for use.

We walked around the library after and noticed a ton of enthralled tourists also. I noticed many people using the library and studying; I am not sure how they can because there were so many people walking around and talking.

We walked by a bar that looked like a speakeasy; I'd have to say, never seen a bar in a library! It's called the Map Room Tea Lounge which serves craft cocktails and small bites. Definitely looks pretty cool. There is the Courtyard Tea room that serves afternoon high tea when you book in advance; a coffee shop called Newsfeed Cafe, which has sandwiches, pastries, coffee, and tea.

We walked by the famous Bates Hall and it was super packed with studiers. The hall was massive and beautiful. There's a courtyard with a water fountain that reminded me of a fancy private school they depict on television. Overall, if you're a fan of history, architecture, art, and books, I highly recommend checking...

I’ve never experienced such unprofessionalism and disrespect from customer service!

When I arrived on 3/12/25 around noon, I walked up to the login computer to make some prints and there was a gentleman clearly high on drugs, hunched over the computer, dozing off. I made a few attempts to conversate with him, maybe get him to slide over so I could tap in my info and get my assigned computer to continue on with my day, but he was incoherent and it didn’t seem to phase the female security guard strolling around acting like she didn’t see it.

So I went to the customer service desk and politely explained to the woman working the situation and asked if there was another device I could use to access the printers and before I could even finish my sentence she starts laughing at me and rudely snaps back “contact security”. I was so taken back by her behavior, I figured maybe she misunderstood what I was saying and I continued to explain what I meant and she just continued to mock me and give attitude. Unbelievable.

It’s one thing if I approached her with matching energy, but I did not. I kindly greeted her and was hoping to find a mutual connection but instead I was faced with someone who clearly doesn’t enjoy engaging with others. So I went on my way to find security and it seems that even the female security guard could care less about her purpose there.. I wound up walking in circles until finally that guy was removed from the computer.

I understand that unforeseen circumstances happen in a city like ours, but have well trained and respectful employees working here. You’re lucky I wasn’t more vocal about this...