The Boston Public Library Fund is an Official Charity Partner of the 2026 Boston Marathon® presented by Bank of America.
The application for the 130th Boston Marathon is now open!
Benefits of joining Team BPL
- Charity runners in need of a bib as well as registered qualified runners with their own bib are welcome to apply to our team.
- Entry into the 2025 Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America
- Full and personalized 20-week training plan for every level of running by RRCA certified coaches with organized group runs throughout the season starting in December.
- Runners will receive professional fundraising and training support through CharityTeams.com
- Organized point to point long runs on the course with aid station support.
- VIP bus to the start.
- Team marathon gear.
- Boundless team spirit, team organization and runner support.
- A fun and positive life changing experience of running the 2026 Boston Marathon with the Boston Public Library Fund
Details
The 130th Boston Marathon will take place on April 20, 2026. Team BPL has 20 bibs.
Eighteen (18) bibs will have a fundraising commitment of $12,000. Please fill out the online application form using the link provided on this page.
Two (2) bibs will have a fundraising commitment of $7,500. These are for those 25 years or younger and preference will be given to applicants that reside in the City of Boston. To be selected, please fill out the application below and write a 500 word essay that describes how the Boston Public Library has impacted your life. Please send your essay to the following email address: eswanson@bplfund.org
Prompt for essay: Team BPL is more than just a group of runners; it represents a community of passionate individuals who support the vital services and programs offered by the Boston Public Library. In 500 words, please address the following questions:
Running in the Boston Community: What has been your experience as a runner in Boston? How have you engaged with the local running community, and what does running in this city mean to you? If you've participated in races, group runs, or other events, feel free to share those experiences.
Connection to the Boston Public Library: Do you have a personal story or special connection to the Boston Public Library? How has the library impacted you or your community? Consider reflecting on how library programs, resources, or events have played a role in your life or influenced your desire to run for Team BPL.
Why Team BPL: What motivates you to run as part of Team BPL specifically? How does the library's mission resonate with you, and why do you want to support it through this experience? What unique contributions or perspectives would you bring to the team?
About Team BPL
Team BPL is managed by the Boston Public Library Fund who oversees the fundraising and overall coordination between runners and Charity Teams, an organization specializing in marathon training. The mission of the Boston Public Library Fund is to provide financial support to the Boston Public Library, ensuring that it remains viable, engaging, accessible, and free to all. By joining Team BPL, your fundraising total will impact the Library’s ability to provide essential resources, programs, services and collections.
