Inside: The Courtyard Tea Room at the Boston Public Library

Nestled in the heart of Copley Square, the Boston Public Library is one of our favorite venues in the city. Bursting with history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking rooms, the library has long been a favorite venue for corporate and private events. From fairy tale-esque weddings in the courtyard, to cocktails in the Guastavino Room, its versatility and many memorable rooms make the Boston Public Library the choice venue for a Boston-centric event.

The Catered Affair at the Boston Public Library is excited to highlight the library in all its beauty with a week dedicated to its many rooms and spaces. Join us as we journey through the library and devour all that it has in store.

The Courtyard Tea Room

The Courtyard Tea Room overlooks the beautiful Italianate courtyard in the Boston Public Library‘s historic McKim Building. The Courtyard Tea Room combines European sophistication with a timeless elegance and makes a wonderful private setting for weddings, ceremonies, corporate events, private dinners and receptions. During the day, it is a delightful spot to enjoy luncheon selections, and after hours, is easily transformed into the perfect space for a private event. Create a lounge area with a touch of glam and a beautiful view, or cozy up at an elegant seated dinner, finished with the exquisite cuisine from The Catered Affair. Hosting up to 90 standing for a cocktail reception or 75 seated, the space is easily one of the most relaxed in the library with additional access to the Map Room Tea Lounge- an alternative space for rentals with more of a cocktail lounge feel.

The Map Room Tea Lounge

Situated next door, the Map Room Tea Lounge is located in the library’s former archive of unique and historical maps. Its dramatic high-arched ceiling and historical décor provide the perfect setting, great for welcome receptions, cocktails, and passed hors d’Oeuvres.

Our tip? Play with your color scheme! The Courtyard Tea Room looks amazing with rich colors.  Bright pinks, deep purples, vibrant blues, rich greens—they all pop against the crisp clean walls.  With gorgeous views of the courtyard from inside, it is the perfect year round spot for a dinner or cocktail party. Utilize the depth of the space by adding in a combination of long and round tables that will really give the room a lot of dimension.