Literary Criticism for Students (and anyone else)

The BPL’s Reader Services Team are specially trained to engage readers about reading across genres and are knowledgeable about new books, trends in publishing, and helping readers find what they should read next. Librarians are available to assist patrons with searching the library’s print and online resources. For any items the library does not own, librarians can assist patrons with requesting material from other libraries.

Additional services provided by the Reader Services Department:

• Reading recommendations. Talk to a reader services librarian in person or request a personalized reading list online.
• Book Discussion Groups at the Central Branch
• Help patron access the BPL’s downloadable and streaming eBooks, eAudiobooks, music, and video collections.
• Computer and technology classes in the Central Library's Training Lab

Reader Services librarians are available at New & Novel on the first floor of the Boylston Street Building at the Central Branch.

You can also contact the department by email at ask@bpl.org, or by mail at:

The Boston Public Library
Central Library at Copley Square
Reader Services Department
700 Boylston Street
Boston MA 02116

Each branch library offers readers services—advice on what to read next, popular titles/authors, research into particular authors, etc.—for all genres of writing. Staff are available to assist patrons with searching the library’s print and electronic resources, and all other collections online and in our buildings. For any items the library does not own, librarians can assist patrons with requesting material from other libraries.

Ask at the Circulation Desk of any branch for the staff person able to answer your questions, or look for the Adult Reference desk.