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Congress authorized the construction of a new library building in the style of the Italian Renaissance in 1886. Its plan reflects that of the Capitol – two wings with a central dome. The portico contains busts of nine “great men of literature” from Demosthenes to Washington Irving.

In this splendid room the civilized arts are represented by allegorical figures atop its eight giant columns: Religion, History, Commerce, Art, Philosophy, Poetry, Law, and Science.

The ceiling, resplendent with stained-glass skylights, soars 75 ft (20 m) above the beautiful marble floor. Ceremonial staircases at either end of the hall are elaborately carved with scenes of cherubs engaged in making music, catching butterflies, and using the newly invented telephone.

This superb example of the first book printed with movable type is one of only three perfect vellum copies to survive. Also here is the handwritten Giant Bible of Mainz.

At any given time historical gems are on display here. Along with Thomas Jefferson’s draft of the Declaration of Independence, typical items are rare atlases of early America, and objects from the mourning of the death of Abraham Lincoln.

This long room, for research work on this ancient geographical area, is one of 10 that give users access to the special collections.

A beautiful marble mosaic of Minerva overlooks the staircase near the Visitors’ Gallery.

This distinguished series presents a range of performances: classical song, harpsichord, solo, trio, and quartet programs, period instrument ensembles, jazz, spirituals, and gospel. Concerts are free.

Classic films are shown in an intimate setting several times a week. Miniseries on subjects such as jazz or Russian cinema run concurrently with the main series.

Roland Hinton Perry sculpted this dashing tribute to the god Neptune and his court, installed in 1898 in front of the Jefferson Building.