The Library of Congress is definitively the largest library in the world, renowned for its immense collection and extensive reach.
The World's Foremost Knowledge Hub
Located in Washington, D.C., the Library of Congress serves as the research library for the U.S. Congress and is also the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States. Beyond its role for legislators, it functions as the de facto national library of the United States and is open to the public for research and exploration. Its sheer scale and the diversity of its holdings make it an unparalleled global resource.
Key Statistics and Holdings
The vastness of the Library of Congress is impressive, housing an incredible array of materials that span centuries and cultures. Its collection is continuously growing, reflecting human knowledge and creativity across every conceivable subject.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | The Library of Congress |
| Founded | 1800 |
| Location | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Total Items | Over 164 million items |
| Bookshelf Length | Approximately 1,350 kilometers (838 miles) |
| Status | World's Largest Library |
This staggering collection includes books, periodicals, manuscripts, maps, photographs, films, audio recordings, sheet music, and much more, making it a comprehensive archive of human thought and experience.
A Rich History and Global Influence
Founded in 1800, the Library of Congress has grown from a small collection intended for congressional use into a global intellectual powerhouse. Its mission extends beyond mere preservation; it actively supports scholarship, promotes literacy, and provides access to knowledge for people worldwide.
- Custodial Role: It legally receives copies of all copyrighted works published in the U.S., significantly contributing to its ever-expanding collection.
- International Reach: The library collects materials in over 470 languages and from nearly every country in the world, offering a truly global perspective on information.
Beyond Books: A Treasure Trove of Information
While it is a book lover's dream, the Library of Congress offers much more than just printed volumes. Its diverse collections provide unique insights into various fields:
- Maps and Atlases: One of the world's largest collections of cartographic materials.
- Photographs and Prints: Millions of visual items documenting history, art, and culture.
- Sound Recordings: From historical speeches to musical masterpieces.
- Motion Pictures and Television: A vast archive of cinematic and broadcast history.
- Rare Books and Manuscripts: Including the personal papers of presidents and other historical figures.
Researchers, scholars, and the general public can delve into these vast resources, either in person at its three Capitol Hill buildings or through its extensive digital collections online.
How to Access the Library of Congress
Anyone aged 16 or older can obtain a reader identification card to use the library's reading rooms. While items cannot be checked out, the resources are available for on-site research. The library also hosts numerous exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events, making it a vibrant center for public engagement with knowledge. For those unable to visit, the official Library of Congress website provides an invaluable portal to many of its digitalized treasures and services.
