Research Services

Fine Arts

General Reference

Government Documents

Kirstein Business Branch

Electronic Databases

Business Websites by Subject

General Information
Floor by Floor

Periodicals

Bibliographies and Guides

Microtext

Music

Newspaper

Prints and
Photographs

Rare Books
and Manuscripts

Social Sciences

Special Collections

Other Services

Booklists for Adults

Booklists for Kids

Booklists for Teens

Interlibrary Loan

Kids' Page

Literacy Services

Publications

Teen Lounge

Q: Who is allowed to use the Kirstein Business Branch?
A: Anyone. As the business department of the Boston Public Library, our collections and resources are available to everyone.

Q: How do I get to the Kirstein Business Branch?
A: Click for Directions & a Map of our area downtown.

Q: Do you accept reference questions by telephone?
A: Yes, we do! While staffing and time limitations prevent our librarians from performing indepth research over the telephone, we will provide answers to reference questions which can be answered in a reasonable amount of time from sources readily available to our librarians.

Q: May I take books out of the Kirstein Business Branch?
A: No. As a department of the Boston Public Library Research Library, we do not circulate books or other materials. All items in our collections are "reference only" and must be used in our building. Circulating copies of some of our books may be available at the Boston Public Library General Library at Copley Square. Ask a librarian to check on the availability of any title you are interested in.

Q: Do I need a library card to use materials?
A: Generally, no, since we do not circulate books or other materials outside of our building. You may be asked to provide identification verifying your home address to use certain items in our collection. In these few instances, an MBLN library card is sufficient identification. You will need to have an MBLN card to sign up for an internet computer or to access the Wireless network at Kirstein. The Kirstein Business Branch issues cards; you may also obtain a card at the Central Library in Copley Square and at neighborhood branch libraries.

Q: Does the Kirstein Business Branch have internet access?
A: Yes. Kirstein currently has 4 publicly-accessible PCs connected to the internet. All offer the popular web browser Microsoft Explorer. You will need a valid BPL card to sign up to use a PC.

Q: May I bring a laptop computer to the Kirstein Business Branch?
A: Laptop computers are permitted in our library, although it is suggested that users bring their own power source-- we have only a few seats adjacent to electrical outlets for laptop users. Wireless internet access is available.

Q: Is photocopying available at the Kirstein Business Branch?
A: We have self-service photocopiers available which will make single-sided, black & white copies. Copies cost 15 cents per page and will accept nickels, dimes, quarters, $1 bills and $5 bills. Our copiers will enlarge or reduce, and will make 8 1/2" x 11" or 8 1/2" x 14" copies (we have one machine which will make an 11" x 17" copy for 30 cents).
[Please note: The copyright law of the United States (Title 17 US Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material; the person using the equipment is liable for any infringement.]

Q: What about fees for computer printouts and microfiche printing?
A: The Boston Public library has a Pay For Print Program.   Individual black and white pages are 15 cents. The first time you print at a Boston Public Library location you will need to purchase a print card for $1.00. There is no charge for downloading; please bring a USB drive, a writable CDROM or a 3 1/2" floppy drive. Microfiche printing (such as from our older annual reports collection) is available for 15 cents per page.

Q: May I return my library books to the Kirstein Business Branch?
A: Yes. As a courtesy to our patrons, we will accept circulating books from MBLN libraries (Boston, Chelsea, and Malden), check them in, and forward them to the Boston Public Library Circulation Department Please be aware that we are unable to check out books, accept fine money, reserve books, or perform other circulation-related functions here at Kirstein.