Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is one of the largest libraries in the world. It is the research library and serves as a national repository of knowledge and culture. The library was established in 1800 and has since grown to hold over 170 million items, including books, manuscripts, photographs, maps, music, and more.

The Library of Congress has several buildings on Capitol Hill, the largest of which is the Thomas Jefferson Building. This building is an architectural masterpiece, featuring ornate decorations, beautiful murals, and marble columns. Visitors to the Library of Congress can explore the building's many exhibits and collections, which include rare books, manuscripts, and historical documents such as the Gutenberg Bible, Thomas Jefferson's personal library, and Abraham Lincoln's draft of the Emancipation Proclamation.

The library also offers guided tours, lectures, and events throughout the year, including concerts, poetry readings, and book talks. Visitors can also use the library's reading rooms to access its extensive collection of resources and conduct research on a wide variety of subjects.

Things to do at Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is a treasure trove of knowledge and culture, with a vast collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and other materials that document the history and culture of the United States and the world.

Take a Guided Tour: The library offers free guided tours of its historic Thomas Jefferson Building, led by knowledgeable docents who can provide insights into the building's architecture, artwork, and collections. Tours run several times a day and cover a variety of topics, including the library's history, treasures, and exhibitions.

Visit the Exhibitions: The library hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing its collections and highlighting important themes and events in American history and culture. The exhibitions are free and open to the public, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into the library's holdings.

Attend a Concert or Lecture: The library hosts a robust schedule of concerts, lectures, and other events, featuring renowned musicians, authors, and scholars. Check the library's calendar for upcoming events.

Use the Reading Rooms: The library's reading rooms are open to the public and provide access to a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials. Visitors can conduct research on a wide range of topics, with the assistance of knowledgeable reference librarians.

View the Treasures: The library has a number of treasures on display, including the Gutenberg Bible, Thomas Jefferson's personal library, and Abraham Lincoln's draft of the Emancipation Proclamation. These items offer a unique and fascinating glimpse into the history of the United States and the world.

Explore the Architecture: The Thomas Jefferson Building is an architectural masterpiece, featuring ornate decorations, beautiful murals, and marble columns. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the building's architecture and learn about its history and design.