Libraries Founded in 1848, the Boston Public Library was the first large free municipal library in the country. There is a wealth of information stored in the library. More than 2 million people visit the BPL system each year to view the more than 6 million books available. There are Internet Resources as well. It's like having the entire library at your fingertips. The Library system consists of the Main Branch located in Copley Square and various Neighborhood Branch Libraries located in various neighborhoods across the City. The Library also has a Teen Lounge. Boston is fortunate to be home to other libraries as well. The Boston Athenaeum, founded in 1807, is one of the oldest and most distinguished independent libraries in the United States. The Bostonian Society maintains a collection of books, and historical artifacts relating to the history of Boston. The John F. Kennedy Library has many exhibits that chronicle the life of our 35th President. The French Library and Cultural Center provides books on topics of interest in the French media.