Mary Baker Eddy was a convention-breaking 19th-century thinker and founder of Christian Science, and her eponymous library presents exhibits on her influential work. The institution also includes exhibitions on the impact of The Christian Science Monitor, and curious visitors can explore the Publishing House Lobby, where printing equipment was once housed.
Though entry is complimentary, you need to purchase admission—and hop on a tour—if you want to visit the Mapparium. Tours run every 20 minutes, and tour entry is first–come, first–served. Since you can get free entry with a Go Boston Pass, it's easy to pair your library visit with stops at area attractions that offer complimentary Go Boston Pass admission, like the must-see Museum of Fine Arts.
Conveniently-located just one block from Symphony Hall, the Mary Baker Eddy Library is easiest to reach by public transit. You can take the metro—known as the T to locals—via the green line, and get off at the Symphony Station. Some area tours visit the museum, and driving is an option via Massachusetts Avenue. The library offers paid parking at the underground garage. For a discounted rate, validate your ticket at reception.
The Mary Baker Eddy Library holds regular hours seven days a week, and is closed on major holidays—including the span between Christmas and New Year's Day. The library is busiest on Saturdays, so plan to visit earlier in the week to avoid crowds. Stop by if the weather turns for an ideal rainy-day activity.
The Mary Baker Eddy Library Mapparium is a colorful, 3-story globe that you can walk through, but the exhibit offers more than just a look at the world. You can enjoy LED light illustrations plus musical accompaniment; the room features impressive acoustics because of the spherical space. History fans can check out the accompanying exhibit, with original documents and artifacts about the creation of this quirky gem.
