Thomas Jefferson Building, Washington, D.C.

Location and Function

The Thomas Jefferson Building is located in Washington, D.C., and serves as the headquarters of the Library of Congress. It's situated on First Street SE, between Independence Avenue and East Capitol Street. The building is part of a larger complex that includes the original Library of Congress building and the James Madison Memorial Building.

History and Architecture

Construction of the Thomas Jefferson Building began in 1890 and was completed in 1897. The building was designed by architect Paul J. Pelz in the Beaux-Arts style. It features a grand main reading room, ornate decorations, and a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials.

Notable Features

The Thomas Jefferson Building is known for its impressive architecture and its vast collection of historical and cultural artifacts. Some of its notable features include:

• The Main Reading Room: This two-story room is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It features a high, vaulted ceiling, marble columns, and a large skylight.
• The Great Hall: This grand hall is located on the first floor of the building and is used for exhibitions and special events.
• The Manuscript Division: This division houses a vast collection of manuscripts, including the original Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States.
• The Rare Book and Special Collections Division: This division houses a collection of rare books, maps, and other materials.

Visiting the Building

The Thomas Jefferson Building is open to the public for tours and research. Visitors can explore the Main Reading Room, the Great Hall, and other public spaces. The building also houses a gift shop and a café.

Note: This information is based on publicly available sources and may not be entirely comprehensive. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Library of Congress website.