Learning at the Library FAQs

  • General Questions

    The Boston Public Library offers many excellent alternatives for research, language learning, workforce development, and more. Whether you're a student, educator, job seeker, or lifelong learner, there are still plenty of valuable resources available to you.

    Explore some of our top recommendations:

    You can read the current edition of the Boston Globe for free with your BPL library card through the following platforms:

    • PressReader – Access a full digital replica of the daily paper.
    • Boston Globe Online (current edition) – Read articles from the current Boston Globe in a searchable, text-friendly format.

    As of July 1, 2025, many statewide research databases are no longer available due to a major reduction in federal funding. This change stems from Executive Order 14238, signed on March 14, 2025, which eliminates the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) — the primary federal funder of library services nationwide.

    To learn more about the impact of this executive order, visit: libraries.state.ma.us/federal-funding-at-risk

    Looking for alternatives?

    The Boston Public Library continues to offer a wide range of databases that cover many of the same subjects. Explore Additional Research Resources in this blog post.

    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. 

    For help with your device, you can contact your local library to see if you can schedule a one-on-one session or attend a class for help using our services on your device. If you need technical support for your device, we can help you find where to get it.

    To see a list of our upcoming technology classes on particular devices and software, check our calendar for details.

    ESL conversation groups do not require registration and are offered at locations throughout the city.

    We also offer ESL and adult literacy learning in a few other formats and at various locations. For more information and to register please call 617.859.2446 or email mtheroux@bpl.org.