Library of Congress

Library of Congress

Library of Congress Pixabay Public Domain

Welcome to the Library of Congress, the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States, first founded in 1800.

This is the world's biggest library, as well as the de facto national library of the United States. The Library of Congress features tours, talks, and concerts regularly, as well as several ongoing and temporary exhibitions that allow guests to 'experience the world's largest collection of culture and creativity'.

There are 3 main buildings that make up the Library of Congress: The John Adams Building, James Madison Memorial Building, and the Thomas Jefferson Building. Within the Thomas Jefferson Building, you will find the exhibits, some popular ones including Exploring the Early Americas, Hope for America, and Mapping a Growing Nation: Independence to Statehood. You can take a free 1-hour guided tour of this building, or take topic-specific tours that range in subject from music and performing arts to history and culture. There are also special tours such as Shall Not be Denied: Women Fight for the Vote and Exploring the Early Americas.

You will undoubtedly work up an appetite during your exploration, so stop at Madison Cafe, Jefferson Coffee Shop, or Adams Snack Bar while here.

Note* All guests must go through a metal detector and have their bags searched upon entrance. Please turn off or silence your cell phone before entering the library, as well.