DK Travel : Washington, D.C. : Library of Congress

Library of Congress

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The focus of this immense library – the greatest accumulation of information and images in the world – is the magnificent Jefferson Building. Its main reading room is one of the most captivating spaces in the city, gleaming with its recently refurbished decorations. Collections encompass many subjects – the law library is especially notable, as are materials and books relating to Africa, the Middle East, and the rest of the world. In addition there are collections of comic books, jazz recordings and memorabilia, photography, films, and television broadcasts.
A Reader’s Card is required for the African and Middle Eastern Reading Room

Top 10 Features

1. Exterior

1. Exterior

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.
2. Main Reading Room

2. Main Reading Room

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.
3. Great Hall

3. Great Hall

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.
4. Gutenberg Bible

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.
5. American Treasures Exhibit

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.
6. African and Middle Eastern Reading Room

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

7. Mosaic of Minerva

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

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.
9. Film Series

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.
10. Neptune Fountain

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

Practical Information

Free standby tickets are often available for concerts, from 6:30pm for 8pm performances and 12:30pm for 2pm performances. For visitors wishing to use the library for research, reader cards can be obtained on the same day by applying at Room LM 401 in the Madison Building. 1st St, SE, between Independence Ave and E Capitol St 202-707-5000 www.loc.gov Open 10am–5:30pm Mon–Sat; tours: 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm Mon–Fri, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 2:30pm Sat Dis. access Free For advance concert tickets phone 800-551-7328 or visit www.ticketmaster.com