Library of Congress Great Hall

The Library of Congress is one of DC’s less often visited museums. However, this has been changing since the launch of the Library Congress Experience and its new exhibitions.  The Library of Congress is the Nationals Library and the worlds biggest library holding over 138 Million items.  These items range from books, manuscripts, sheet music, movies and videos, maps, print materials, recordings and much more.  Once you enter the Library you will notice the stunning architecture and mosaics in the Great Hall.  To get the best information about the library including information about the paintings, mosaics, and exhibits it’s best to take the one hour guided tour.  All Library tours are free and more information about the tours can be found here .

This is defiantly a recommended tour and visit when you are in DC.  It is located just behind the US Capitol and to the East of the Supreme Court building on Capitol Hill.  Why not stop in or take a walk to see the beautiful water fountain at the entrance of the Library.  Just remember you never know who you may see when on Capitol hill.

Unlike other Smithsonian Museums The Library of Congress has strict security policies.  All visitors entering any building of the Library of Congress must pass through metal detectors and show all contents of bags when exiting.  Photographs and video filming are allowed but for personal use only.  More information on entry and exit procedures for the library of congress can be found here.

Need to Know