Library of Congress, Washington DC
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Library of Congress - by Carol M. Highsmith in the Public Domain
Description
The Library of Congress officially serves the United States Congress and is the de facto national library of the United States. It is one of the largest libraries in the world with over 170mn items housed in three buildings on Capitol Hill in Washington DC: the Thomas Jefferson Building (1897), the John Admas Building and the James Madison Memorial Building (home of the U.S. Copyright Office) Fires set back the collection substantially in 1812 (burnt by the British) and in 1851. The library is open to the public for visit and research, although only high-ranking government officials and library employees may check out (i.e., remove from the premises) books and materials
Access & Transport
The building open to visitors is the Thomas Jefferson Building at 10 First Street SE. The entrance is underneath the grand staircase on First Street SE between Independence Ave and East Capitol Street. The Capitol South metro station (Blue, Orange, Silver lines) is 400m to the south and there are bus stops on Independence Ave SE. Accessibility info: https://www.loc.gov/accessibility/accessibility-for-visitors/
Instructions & Recommendations
Free timed-entry passes are required. Book you slot here (max 20 pers.): https://loc.usedirect.com/LOC/
Environmental & Social
This is an active research library so no incremental carbon footprint from visitors. Scores high in social aspect for its cultural and conservation aspects.
Conclusion
The US Library of Congress is, in our opinion, a highly recommended visit for anybody who cherishes culture and knowledge - a physical manifestation of sort. The building architecture and decoration make the place even more special and, dare we say, even a little spiritual.
Key positive
Stunning building and Reading room
A unique type of 'museum'
Key negative
No guided tours (at the time of this review)
Suitability
Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
August 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:1h
Monday -
Tuesday10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday10:00 - 17:00
Thursday10:00 - 20:00
Friday10:00 - 17:00
Saturday10:00 - 17:00
Sunday -