Research FAQs

• How I request access to research materials?

  In-Library Use Only Materials
  You can access materials found via the online catalog marked In-Library Use Only by coming to the Delivery Desk at the Central Library in Copley Square at least twenty-five minutes before closing. Some materials are stored offsite and may not be available right away.

  
  Other Materials
  Much of our research collections, particularly those older than 1974, are not represented in our online catalog. Please consult our special collections index to find contact information for requesting access to individual collections, or get in touch with our Research Services librarians via ask@bpl.org for help or to have materials pulled for you in advance of your visit.

• How do I get help with research and reference questions?

  Online
  Fill out our contact form or email us at ask@bpl.org. Our librarians will be in touch over email within twenty-four hours. Depending on your needs, we might recommend a phone call or visit when we get back to you. If your research need is complex, please indicate in the form that you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss your research needs.

  Phone
  We have librarians on-call to help you with research and reference from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. You can reach us at 617.536.5400.

  In-Person
  There is a librarian on duty at all BPL locations who can help you with research. More intensive research help is available at the Central Library in Copley Square in Bates Hall.

  Book a Librarian
  You can also book a 30 minute appointment with a research librarian. After you request an appointment, the Library will get back to you within 2 business days letting you know if your appointment was approved; information about joining the meeting will be sent in a separate email. Appointments must be requested at least 5 days in advance. 

• I don’t live in Massachusetts but I want to do research at the BPL. How do I access materials?

  You can get a research card at the Central Library in Copley Square at either the Borrower Services Desk (Level One of the Boylston Street building) or the Delivery Desk (Level Two of the McKim building). This card is free and allows use of materials inside the library. To get this card, you need a photo ID and a document that states your current address. A driver's license or state ID should fulfill both requirements.

  If you are coming to the BPL from far away for extensive research, we encourage you to reach out to our Research Services librarians ahead of your visit to ensure the most efficient use of your time here. You can email our Research Services librarians at ask@bpl.org.

• Will the BPL photocopy research materials for me?

  Generally speaking we do not make copies for patrons but we do offer photocopiers for your use. If you have trouble using one of our copiers let us know at the nearest service desk.

  Please note: some of our materials can’t be photocopied for preservation reasons. In many such cases digital photography would be allowed but please consult with a research librarian before photographing any research materials.

• How do I search for items in Special Collections?

  Special Collections materials are described in a variety of databases depending on format, including the online catalog, archives.bpl.org, and card catalogs. For assistance getting started searching, email specialcollections@bpl.org and staff will be happy to help you identify what you'd like to see.

• What do I do if the book I want says it is "available by request"?

  If you find an item in the online catalog that is listed as "available by request," you can access the item in our Special Collections Reading Room by appointment. To make an appointment, click the "Request an item" button, find the specific volume you'd like to request, and choose "request this item," You'll be brought to readingroom.bpl.org, where you can create an account and choose the specific day and time you'd like to come in to see the item.

• How do I access materials in Arts or Special Collections?

  Anything listed as being held in "Arts" or "Special Collections" is available in our Special Collections Reading Room. You'll need to make an appointment at least two days in advance to access these items. See the Special Collections page for instructions on making an appointment.

• What if I want to use my Research Book for more than one day?

  When you return your item to the Delivery Desk, be sure to let a staff person know you would like to extend your hold. The item will be put aside and will be available on the “holds” shelf the following day.