MHS Response to COVID-19

Dear Friends,

We are thrilled to welcome you back to 1154 Boylston Street to attend programs, view exhibitions, and use the reading room! There are many factors involved in creating a safe environment for staff and visitors.

We are grateful to our community for their patience and support during this fluid situation and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to our building. Continue reading below to learn about our reference services, exhibitions, and events. And please check our website and social media channels for additional updates.

All the best,

Catherine Allgor
MHS President

Reader Services

The MHS library is open to the public Monday and Wednesday through Friday, from 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM; Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 7:45 PM; and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM for onsite research visits. Researchers are strongly encouraged to request an appointment in advance of arriving at the MHS. A Portal1791 account is required to book an appointment.

Researchers with confirmed appointments will be guaranteed a seat in the reading room on their appointment date(s). Walk-in researchers will be accommodated if space is available in the library.

Events & Exhibitions

We are happy to welcome visitors back to 1154 Boylston Street for in-person programs and exhibitions. We offer a full slate of author talks, panel discussions, workshops, seminars, and brown-bag lunch programs. Learn more about our COVID-19 protocols to keep our visitors and staff safe. Please visit our online calendar and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for program listings. Learn more about our current exhibition. Join our e-mail list to receive weekly e-mails with calendar information and timely updates.

Donate to the MHS Collection

We continue to actively add to our collection. Please contact the Vice President for Collections and review our collecting policy before sending any material.

Support the MHS

The generosity of our friends and community has sustained the MHS for more than 230 years, and today your support enables us to fulfill our mission to promote understanding of the history of Massachusetts and the nation by collecting and communicating materials and resources that foster historical knowledge. Supporting the MHS Fund allows us to fulfill our mission to collect, preserve, and share the treasures that promote the study of American history. Foster fascination with a donation!

We offer you a warm virtual welcome and look forward to seeing you in person!