The Boston Public Library is one of the oldest and most respectable libraries in the United States. Its first home was in a schoolhouse on Mason Street, which opened its doors to patrons on March 20, 1854. Later, it moved to its current home: the Johnson Building and the McKim Building—a stunning example of Renaissance Beaux-Arts Classicism in America.

In addition to magnificent architecture, the Boston Public Library boasts a multitude of spectacular collections including several first edition folios by William Shakespeare and the personal library of John Adams.