by Beth on September 14, 2000
The BPL was built in 1845 and was the first free municipal library in the United States. The original side is typical of the 1800s -- ornate, lots of marble, etc -- while the modern side built in the 1970s is a very clean and simple design. Tours of the BPL focus on the original building and the murals by John Singer Sargent, the murals by the grand staircase by Pierre Puvis de Chavannes and stories behind many of the other sculptures and paintings. Tours are given by Volunteer Office and last about an hour and a half. If you are interested in art, history or literature, I highly recommend making a visit.
http://www.igougo.com/review-r1139444-Boston_Public_Library.html
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