The LOC.GOV Wise Guide : Y'All Come Back Now, Y'Hear?

Often described as the most beautiful building in Washington, the Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress is a shining jewel in the city’s must-see tourist stops. Welcoming guests since 1897, the Library entertains some one million visitors annually. During the peak season in spring, a day doesn’t go by without busloads of students and other tour groups being dropped off at the curb to peruse the treasures that await them inside.

“Minerva of Peace” holds court over crowd

The Library of Congress Information Bulletin devoted the September 2006 issue to the institution’s visitors. The cover story highlights the Library’s history as a visitor’s attraction, with docent-led tours, exhibitions, scholarly lectures and concerts.

Although the Library deals in the past, the institution certainly has its eye on the future. With the New Visitors’ Experience premiering in 2007, another article in the Bulletin puts the spotlight on the ultimate tribute to the patrons it serves. “Bringing Knowledge into Life,” the program will take visitors on a journey behind the scenes and through new exhibition spaces, explore creativity within a multimedia library and, in a sense, let visitors take the Library home with them.

More information on the Library’s news and initiatives can be found on the Library of Congress Information Bulletin Web site, which features archived issues as far back as 1993. The monthly publication, which reaches some 12,000 subscribers internationally and domestically, offers insight into the popular tourist attraction.

A. Keisha Manderson, photographer. View of the Jefferson Building. 2006. Reproduction information: Not available for reproduction.

B. Keisha Manderson, photographer. “Minerva of Peace” holds court over crowd. 2006. Reproduction information: Not available for reproduction.