With nearly 7,000 books added to its collection every day, Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, established in 1800 to prove to the world that the United States was a cultured country. The library's nearly 850 km (530 mi) of shelves hold 32 million books and 61 million manuscripts. Boasting the largest rare book collection in North America, the library also houses one of only three remaining vellum copies of the famous Gutenberg Bible. Dedicated to organizing information from the past three centuries, this institution preserves approximately 1 million newspaper issues, 500,000 microfilm reels, 5 million maps, 3 million sound recordings, and nearly 15 million prints and photographic images. Start your quest for knowledge at the visitor center, where you can arrange for a guided tour of the reading rooms. Arrange to visit Library of Congress and other attractions in Washington DC using our Washington DC holiday planner.
Create an itinerary including Library of Congress
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Tours to Library of Congress
Library of Congress reviews
-
The LOC is a gem. If you have time, check out one of the many free events, whether they're concerts or lectures. Gloria Gaynor even performed there for a 70s disco event! And sign up to get a library.... more »
-
Enjoyed a fabulous morning at the Library of Congress in February 2020. Beautiful building, amazing collection and the free and regular tours are so informative. Loved being able to get a laminated..... more »
-
It is a very interesting place. I would recommend that you arrive at the entrance right as it opens. The lines usually “backs up” about 30 minutes after it opens, so arriving there early may save time. It is right across from the United Sates Capitol, too. Just down the street is the United States Botanical Gardens as well. Overall, a very nice place with very informative exhibits.
-
This is such a beautiful building! The architecture is very ornate and awe-inspiring. From the fountain out front to the marbling inside, this building is amazing! It's free to visit and the museum is very informative. They have numerous artifacts from our nation's history and beyond. You will not be disappointed when you visit. Unfortunately, in order to enter the actual library you need to make an appointment. I completely understand that as it allows the library to be an actual library and not become a tourist trap. Please visit this beautiful place.
Plan your trip to Washington DC
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesBook it
Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% offManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Popular things to do in Washington DC
Hidden gems in Washington DC
Side trips from Washington DC
Museums in Washington DC
Historic Sites in Washington DC
Trips to Library of Congress by other users
31 days in East Coast of USA & Nashville
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Savannah
Charleston
Virginia Beach
31 days in East Coast of USA
BY A USER FROM BELGIUM
Boston
New York City
Washington DC
8 days in East Coast of USA
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Washington DC
New York City
6 days in Washington DC
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Washington DC
25 days in United States
BY A USER FROM ISRAEL
Washington DC
Philadelphia
New York City
30 days in East Coast of USA
BY A USER FROM ISRAEL
New York City
Washington DC
Key West
