Library of Congress
District of Columbia
The Library of Congress, located in Washington, D.C., serves as the research library for the United States Congress and is the de facto national library of the United States. Founded in 1800, it is the oldest federal cultural institution in the country and holds one of the largest collections worldwide, with approximately 173 million items spanning over 470 languages. The library is housed primarily in three buildings on Capitol Hill-the Thomas Jefferson Building, the John Adams Building, and the James Madison Memorial Building. It also manages additional facilities including the National Audio-Visual Conservation Center. The Library's collections are universal, encompassing materials from all parts of the world without limitation by subject or format. It plays a vital role in legislative research through the Congressional Research Service, providing objective, non-partisan information to assist Congress. While open to the public for research, borrowing privileges are restricted to members of Congress, their staff, and library employees. Architecturally, the Thomas Jefferson Building, completed in the late 19th century, is renowned for its ornate design and artistic embellishments, reflecting the cultural significance of the institution. The Library also administers copyright law via the United States Copyright Office, underscoring its multifaceted national importance.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during weekdays when the library is fully operational and public tours are available. It is recommended to check the official website in advance for guided tour schedules and any special exhibitions. While the library is open to all for research, borrowing materials requires congressional affiliation. Consider arriving early to explore the Thomas Jefferson Building's stunning architecture and murals. No advance ticket purchase is necessary for general entry, but booking tours ahead can ensure availability. Discounts or free admission apply as it is a public institution.
Interesting facts
- •The Library of Congress holds approximately 173 million items, making it one of the largest libraries in the world.
- •Thomas Jefferson's personal library of 6,487 books was purchased to restore the collection after the 1814 fire.
- •The library's collection includes materials in over 470 languages from all around the world.
- •A government account book from 1810 was the only volume to survive the 1814 British burning of the library, later returned as a souvenir in 1940.
- •The Library of Congress administers the United States Copyright Office and houses the Congressional Research Service.
History
The Library of Congress was established in 1800 by an act signed by President John Adams, initially housing 740 books and maps.
It suffered significant losses during the 1814 burning of Washington by British forces, which destroyed over 3,000 volumes.
To replenish the collection, former President Thomas Jefferson sold his personal library of 6,487 books to Congress in 1815, significantly shaping the library's foundation.
The library faced challenges such as space shortages and funding issues until the Civil War increased the need for legislative research.
In the late 19th and 20th centuries, the library expanded with the construction of the Thomas Jefferson Building (1890-1897), the John Adams Building (1939), and the James Madison Memorial Building (1980), reflecting its growing national role and collection size.
Place Guide
Thomas Jefferson Building1890-1897
The oldest and most architecturally ornate of the three main Library of Congress buildings, constructed between 1890 and 1897. It features elaborate murals, sculptures, and a magnificent central reading room symbolizing the cultural importance of knowledge and learning.
John Adams Building1939
Opened in 1939, this building expanded the Library’s capacity and houses many of its collections and administrative offices.
James Madison Memorial Building1980
Opened in 1980, this is the newest of the three main buildings, providing additional space for collections, reading rooms, and offices.
Contact
Phone: (202) 707-5000
