The Boston Public Library was the first publicly supported library in the United States. It was the first large library open to the public in the United States, and the first public library to allow people to borrow books to take home to read. All adult residents of the state are entitled to borrowing and research privileges. According to its website, the Boston Public Library contains 8.9 million books, making it one of the largest public libraries in the nation.
Because of state budget cuts the library's future looks bleak. As a lover of books, as well as the library system it's self, I am concerned. Libraries are a great equalizer. They are there for every citizen no matter what station in life. I hope that our state will live up to this proud history as it decides the fate of this grand institution.
