History of Boston Public Library, Copley Sq.

Today's Boston Public Library circulation is higher than ever. For the second year in a row, the library has crossed the 3.5 million items lended threshold. Since 2006, there has been a 35 percent increase in books, CDs, and DVDs borrowed. But the budget is shrinking, the Boston Public Library is considering new options to fill its expansive location. Officials said they are considering adding retail to the first floor of the Johnson building.. Boston's library has been a longtime trendsetter since it established in 1848. Take a look its history. Pictured: Central court of Boston Public Library in 1974.
Ellis Herwig / Globe Staff / File
  • E-mail

    • E-mail this article

    Invalid E-mail address
    Invalid E-mail address

    Sending your article

    Your article has been sent.

Today's Boston Public Library circulation is higher than ever. For the second year in a row, the library has crossed the 3.5 million items lended threshold. Since 2006, there has been a 35 percent increase in books, CDs, and DVDs borrowed.

But the budget is shrinking, the Boston Public Library is considering new options to fill its expansive location.

Officials said they are considering adding retail to the first floor of the Johnson building..

Boston's library has been a longtime trendsetter since it established in 1848. Take a look its history.

Pictured: Central court of Boston Public Library in 1974.