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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.

Hours of Operation

Visitor Hours to the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building (Tours, Exhibitions, Gallery Talks)

  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Researchers Hours (Access to Readings Rooms, Research Assistance)

Hours for reading rooms vary. View reading room and research center hours.

Holiday and Weather Closures

All Library of Congress buildings are closed to the public on Sundays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and New Year holidays. All reading rooms and the Madison and Adams buildings are closed on Federal Holidays.

In the event of inclement weather or other issues, the Library of Congress typically follows the Federal Government operating status.

E-Mail Alerts

Receive e-mail alerts External about the Library of Congress's operating status.

Building Entrance and Exit Availability

Thomas Jefferson Building

First Street, SE

Monday - Saturday
Visitors: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Researchers and Staff: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exit closes at 5:30 p.m.

Second Street, SE Entrance

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
Researchers and Staff: 5:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Second Street, NE, Exit

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

James Madison Memorial Building

Independence Avenue, SE Entrance

Monday–Friday
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Entry after 6 p.m. is reserved for those attending events at the Library, researchers entering reading rooms that are open in the evenings (view reading room hours) and for staff.

Saturday
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

C Street, SE

Monday–Friday
8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for entrance
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. for exit

John Adams Building

Second Street, SE

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Entry after 6 p.m. is reserved for those attending events at the Library, researchers entering reading rooms that are open in the evenings (view reading room hours) and for staff.

Tuesday, Friday, Saturday
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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