Where can you enjoy a scrumptious tea AND view an ancient cuneiform tablet?

The Boston Public Library’s main branch, that’s where.

The McKim Building of the Boston Public Library was built in 1848 and has been named a National Historic Landmark. These cloisters surround the garden.

Marianne and I enjoyed the best tea yet (we’ve been sampling; see here) at the library’s Courtyard Restaurant.  At $32 for full tea (that includes sandwiches and desserts), this is more or less on a par with the other high teas we’ve encountered in the Boston area, but the food is a solid 4 out of 5 (which out-ranks The Langham and Rowe’s Wharf, in our book).   I will admit that a menu list that includes assam tea (as this one did) merits extra points from me.  Assam, used in Irish Breakfast Tea, is rich and malty and welcomes a cube of sugar and splash of milk.   Ideal for mid-afternoon tea breaks.  But I digress.

The wait staff were attentive and responsive, and Marianne scored more macaroons for the road when we complimented the chef on their delicious-ness.  The marble windowsills, black iron window grates (is that a gargoyle peering at me?), heavy candles squatting under over-sized bell covers, and black-and-white historical photos gracing the walls give off a kind, warm, and gothic sensibility.  Enchantment.  I can’t think of a better place to lose myself with a book for an hour.

If you take the T and use a wheelchair, there is an accessible stop at the library, and the Johnson building entrance, on Boylston Street, is accessible.  It’s best to look at a map before you go, so that you identify workable entrances.  It’s a big building to circumnavigate if you don’t have to do so.  It’s also old, so be prepared for creaky lifts (or, as Marianne more aptly stated, “creepy” lifts).

I can’t help you if you drive.  I parked in what might be the city’s most expensive garage (the Copley Square garage) because I could see the library from there, and I identified the curb cuts and walk lights we needed.  There were a lot – really, a lot –  of handicap parking spaces near the library but they were all taken.  I found that somewhat suspect, but that’s an article for another day.

The Leventhal Map Center at the library is accessible, and although small, has beautiful images and is near the Courtyard Cafe.  The museum has published a virtual brochure called Walk To The Sea, showing how Boston doubled over the centuries.

The Special Collections Room, on the third floor, is accessible by elevator.  The librarian we encountered is a treasure trove of information.  You must call or email in advance if you wish to see something from the special collection – George Washington’s Congressional medal perhaps? – but just standing amidst John Adams’ personal letters and books can be thrilling enough (Marianne might argue this statement).

The marionette collection, housed in an enclave right near the Special Collections Room, is a small but chilly family you don’t want to miss.

Still need one more reason to visit the library?  The main branch, as well as many others (like the Newton Public Library), offers museum passes.  You have to call in advance to reserve the passes.    Like me, you might find some interesting places to explore in the winter months ahead.   The Griffin Museum of Photography, anyone?

View from Boston Public Library’s 3rd floor