The LOC.GOV Wise Guide : Explore. Discover. Be Inspired.

The Library of Congress welcomes visitors to an exciting and innovative Experience in its breathtaking Thomas Jefferson Building. This new educational Experience invites the public to explore the institution’s vast collections as never before. New exhibitions enhanced by interactive technology offer a chance to encounter rare and unique items, such as the rough draft of the Declaration of Independence, the Gutenberg Bible, the 1507 Waldseemüller map that first named America and Thomas Jefferson’s recreated library.

The plaster bust of Thomas Jefferson is a copy of a work by the French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon (1741–1828)

Through myLOC.gov, the new personalized Web site of the Library of Congress, patrons can continue their exploration of the world’s largest collection of knowledge, culture and creativity. The site features interactive versions of the same exhibition content physically at the Library, educational resources, information for visitors and a page where users can create their own virtual collection of Library objects.

Other online activities include examining historical maps throughout the Library’s digital collections, including tools for analysis and note-taking and a set of guiding questions for each type of map, and an opportunity to rewrite the rough draft of the Declaration of Independence.

Often considered one of the most beautiful buildings in all of Washington, D.C., the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building is now open for virtual exploration thanks to myLOC.gov. Users can take a tour of the Great Hall and Main Reading Room without ever having to leave the comforts of home. The tour also allows virtual visitors to get “up close and personal” with the art, architecture and sculptures the building is famous for.

For those patrons able to physically make it to the Library of Congress, myLOC.gov offers a handy guide in planning a visit. Included are exhibition details and guides, directions, a weekly calendar of events, floor plans and a list of the 25 most frequently asked questions.

A. Homepage of myLOC.gov. 2008. Library of Congress. Reproduction Information: Reproduction information unavailable.

B. The plaster bust of Thomas Jefferson is a copy of a work by the French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon (1741–1828). Great Hall, Library of Congress. Reproduction Information: Reproduction information not available.