The Library of Congress is your library, my library, the library of our nation.  As a free library, open to the public, you are invited to visit and take a free guided tour when you are in Washington.

However, it is closed until further notice due to COVID-19, as are all public buildings in Washington at this time, as of this writing August 23, 2020. In the meantime, please visit their official website and discover this valuable resource for research, view the catalog, browse historic prints, or even ask a librarian for their help. Have a writing you want to register? Research history? It's all there, the history of our nation. Our history.  If you want to be amazed, visit their website www.loc.gov and just look at the photos that are free to download and use.  The resources there are bound to blow your mind.  

Notice: Limited researcher access to restricted digital resources is available on-site by appointment only. Online services, resources available. MORE.
Library buildings otherwise closed to the public. Public events on-site canceled until further notice. Virtual events ongoing. MORE.

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, with millions of books, recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps and manuscripts in its collections. The Library is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office.

The Library preserves and provides access to a rich, diverse and enduring source of knowledge to inform, inspire and engage you in your intellectual and creative endeavors. Whether you are new to the Library of Congress or an experienced researcher, we have a world-class staff ready to assist you online and in person.

I encourage you to visit the Library of Congress in person in Washington, D.C., explore the Library online from wherever you are and connect with us on social media.

Sincerely,
Carla Hayden
14th Librarian of Congress