The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library encompassing 164 million books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and films. The library does not have designated parking; however, there is street parking along the adjacent streets. The library is spread amongst three buildings, but you should start your tour at the Jefferson Building, main building. While in the Jefferson Building, it can take between 1 – 2 hours as you wandered around the spectacular Great Hall which is done in stained glass, marble sculptures, and mosaics of mythical characters. There is an underground tunnel that goes from the Jefferson Building to the Madison Building. Inside the Madison Building there is cafe on the 6th floor that offers a beautiful view of the city and citizens can be issued a library card to anyone with an ID card so they can conduct some research. The Adams Building offers free lectures, concerns and films throughout the complex.

When you enter the Jefferson Building, guests should pickup a map and proceed to the top of the first floor where he/she can view the Gutenberg Bible, created in 1455. Afterwards, guests should proceed to the second floor to view Thomas Jefferson’s round library, which contains his personal collection of 6,487 volumes. Additionally while on the second floor, there is the Waldseemuller World Map, created in 1507, which is the first map to show America and overlook the Main Reading Room.

The library offers timed tickets which can be reserved online or in-person. When receiving the timed ticket, guests cannot enter the library before the time, but they can be 15 minutes late. While inside the library, there is a cloak room and lockers, and guests must be processed through security when entering and exiting. Additionally, you can view the library on your own, or wait at the information desk and participate in a guide tour. The guided tour lasts about an hour.