Visiting the Library
We are thrilled to welcome you to the Library of Congress, America’s library - YOUR library. Visit us and discover new pathways to explore the Thomas Jefferson Building and its exhibitions. We can’t wait to see you again!
Carla Hayden
Librarian of Congress
We are looking forward to safely welcoming you back to the Library of Congress. We are taking a number of precautions to ensure the health of our visitors and staff, including new requirements that all visitors must reserve a timed-entry pass and wear a mask during their visit. We encourage you to take a moment to review our Know Before You Go page to prepare for your visit.
Entry and Visiting
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Every Library of Congress visitor must reserve timed-entry passes in order to maintain safe capacity levels in the Thomas Jefferson Building.
Reserve your timed entry pass external link
Review our Know Before You Go guide for current Library safety and visiting requirements.
Pathways
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The Library is pleased to share new themed pathways through the Jefferson Building, clearly marked throughout our public spaces for a self-guided experience. Guided tours and tour reservations are not available at this time.
The Library is a place where you can follow your curiosity. Choose a path through the Thomas Jefferson Building that inspires you.
Concerts, Lectures & Other Events
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What’s happening at the Library this month? Join us every Thursday, beginning July 8, for our Fourth Annual Movies on the Lawn Series. Check out the Calendar of Public Events and Library of Congress: Engage! for ways to connect. Stay in touch and learn more about the Library’s resources on Facebook external link and Instagram external link.
Exhibitions
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Beginning July 8, visitors with timed-entry passes will be able to view the Great Hall, the Gutenberg Bible, the Abel Buell 1784 U.S. map and the overlook into the Main Reading Room. Beginning July 15, “Rosa Parks: In Her Own Words”; “Shall Not Be Denied: Women Fight for the Vote”; “Thomas Jefferson’s Library”; and “Exploring the Early Americas,” will be available to explore. Visit our virtual exhibitions to plan your route.
Reading Rooms
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On-site research is now available! As of June 1, limited Reading Rooms are available to credentialed researchers by appointment only. Learn more about resources available to researchers. Have a question? We encourage you to contact a specialist through Ask a Librarian.
Shopping
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The Library Shop will be open to timed-entry visitors beginning July 8. Visit the Online Store on Shopify external link to find books, souvenirs and Library inspired gifts.
The Jefferson Building will be open to the public with timed-entry passes beginning July 8, 2021. Timed-entry passes will be available Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. Reserve your timed entry pass today external link
Location
Thomas Jefferson Building
10 First Street SE
Washington, DC 20540
Admission
The Library of Congress is free and open to the public with timed-entry access. Reserve your timed-entry pass today external link
Visitor Information
(202) 707-8000 or veo@loc.gov
Accessibility
Library of Congress buildings are fully accessible. Please indicate any ADA related needs at least five days in advance of your visit by contacting ADA@loc.gov or (202) 707-6024.