The Boston Public Library has nearly 24 million materials, including almost nine million books of which 1.7 million are rare. This collection makes it the second largest public library in the U.S. The “gas” lights are an example of the McKim Building’s ornate façade. In stark contrast is the 60 story, blue glass cladding John Hancock Tower that was built in the Back Bay nearly 80 years later in 1976.
