The entrance hall of the McKim building is low, broad and of Roman design. It is divided into three aisles by heavy piers of Iowa sandstone. The ceiling is vaulted, with domes in the side bays, and is covered with a marble mosaic trellis containing the names of 30 famous Bostonians. The floor, of white Georgia marble, is inlaid in the center aisle with brass inscriptions and symbols of the zodiac.
To the left of the Staircase are the Elevator and Entrance to the Courtyard.
When the library was first opened this floor contained a coat room, Ordering Departments, the Public Stenographer's Room.