Boston Public Library

 Imagine saying “I do” in one of Boston’s most iconic wedding venues. The Boston Public Library is a dream come true for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The stunning architecture, unique ambiance, and historic charm make it the perfect venue for a romantic and memorable wedding. 

Located in the heart of Boston, this local landmark was founded in 1848 and is considered to be one of the oldest and most renowned libraries in the United States. Home to over 23 million items, including books, maps and manuscripts, the library lends a sense of grandeur and elegance. With several unique spaces for events, each as beautiful and impressive as the last, the Boston Public Library is sure to have everything you need to make your wedding-day dreams come true. 

Event Spaces 

Whether you are planning an intimate wedding in the city or an extravagant celebration with all the people who matter most, the Boston Public Library will have the perfect space for your big day. 

Bates Hall 

Bates Hall is located in the main McKim building and is easily the most recognizable room in the library. Bates Hall features a 50’ high barrel vault ceiling, walls covered in oak-paneled bookshelves, and large oak tables topped with green reading lanterns. Bates Hall is recognized to be, architecturally, one of the most noteworthy rooms in the world. With a capacity to seat 300 for an indoor ceremony and dinner and dancing, this stunning space is the perfect venue for providing you and your guests a luxe experience you will never forget.  

The Abbey Room 

For more intimate affairs consider the Abbey Room. The Abbey room is famous for its impressively large mural Quest and Achievement of the Holy Grail, by renowned American artist Edwin Austin Abbey. This room exudes warmth and charm featuring ornate woodwork, stained glass windows and a large antique marble fireplace. This space holds up to 150 for a cocktail style reception, 100 seated for dinner and 70 if seated for dinner and dancing. The Abbey Room also includes use of the outside terrace. 

Guastavino Room 

The Guastavino Room offers a bright and spacious atmosphere featuring vaulted ceilings and uniquely designed architecture. With a capacity of 240 for a cocktail reception and 180 for a seated dinner and 150 for dinner and dancing.

The Courtyard 

The Courtyard is a popular ceremony location offering elegance and beauty amidst the striking architecture, lush gardens, and a beautiful water fountain. This outdoor space is able to accommodate up to 200 seated for a ceremony, 225 for a cocktail reception, and up to 60 seated for dinner.

The Courtyard Tea Room 

The Tea room is a light and airy space filled with warm sunlight and features an original chandelier hanging from the ornate ceiling. Look out to the Italianate Courtyard through the Tea Room’s oversized windows. This room is perfect for more intimately sized groups at a capacity of 99 for a cocktail reception and a ceremony of 150. 

Boylston Hall 

Located in the Boylston Street Building is a contemporary space perfect for cosmopolitan weddings and large gatherings, featuring a wooden wave ceiling and floor to ceiling windows overlooking Boylston street. This large event space can accommodate up to 1000 guests for a Standing Reception, 550 for a Seated Dinner and 300 for a Seated Dinner with Dancing and up to 400 for a Seated Ceremony. 

DeFerrai Hall 

Located in the Boylston Street building, DeFarrai Hall offers theater style seating for up to 200 guests in this modern and intimate setting. DeFarrai Hall is known for its large symmetrical staircase and its high glass skylight. 

There are several other unique spaces available to host your event at the Boston Public Library, to view the full list of venue spaces available click here.

To view the BPL virtual guide book and learn more about the historical facility check out this page.

Catering

The Boston Public Library works exclusively with The Catered Affair, a food and beverage team that proudly services some of Boston’s most exclusive venues. The Catered Affair offers several unique dining experiences including cocktail parties, seated dinners, dinner buffets and customized menus.  To help their couples choose the right dining experience for their wedding day they’ve created this helpful guide.

Investment

Investment levels vary depending on the unique rooms and requirements of each wedding day. The average investment level for a site fee at Boston Public Library is anywhere from 8,700 to 25,000. This estimated investment does not include the cost for catering services. Please contact the Library directly for most up to date pricing.

Things to consider 

• The Boston Public Library is available for weddings after hours when the library is closed to the public. 
• The Boston Public Library partners with the catered Affair exclusively. 
• While there is no onsite parking at the Boston Public Library there are several nearby parking garages for your guests to make use of. 

Connect with the Boston Public Library: 

Address: 700 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116

Phone: Boston Public Library Special Events Office 617.859.2212 

Email: events@bpl.orgThe Catered Affair: 617.859.2282