Library of Congress

Overview

The Library of Congress is the world's largest library, holding more than 170 million items in 470 languages, including 40 million cataloged books. Its ornate Thomas Jefferson Building is considered one of the most beautiful public buildings in America.

Highlights

• Main Reading Room: Soaring 160-foot domed hall with 236 seats, visible from the visitors' gallery above.
• Thomas Jefferson's Library: Reconstruction of Jefferson's personal library, which formed the basis of the Library after the British burned the original in 1814.
• Gutenberg Bible: One of three perfect vellum copies in the world, displayed in the Great Hall.

History

Established in 1800 for the use of Congress, the Library moved through several locations before the Thomas Jefferson Building opened in 1897. Designed by John L. Smithmeyer, Paul J. Pelz, and Edward Pearce Casey, it features Italian Renaissance–inspired architecture.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Free one-hour guided tours of the Jefferson Building depart from the ground-floor visitor center.
• Tip 2: Anyone 16 or older with a valid photo ID can obtain a free Reader Identification Card to access the reading rooms.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.