Thomas Jefferson Building

Washington, D.C., United States

Open to visitors

The interior is normally open, possibly ticketed.

Strollie cannot guarantee access — always check before you travel.

Opening hours: Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Th 10:00-20:00
Wheelchair access: Accessible

From OpenStreetMap — confirm before travelling

Find out more

The Thomas Jefferson Building, the oldest of the Library of Congress buildings in Washington, D.C., stands on First Street, S.E. between Independence Avenue and East Capitol Street, directly across from the U.S. Capitol. Built between 1890 and 1897 in the Beaux-Arts and Classical Revival styles, it was initially known simply as the Library of Congress Building before being renamed in 1980 to honor Thomas Jefferson, whose personal book collection, purchased in 1815, formed the foundation for the library's holdings. Designed principally by Paul J. Pelz in partnership with John L. Smithmeyer, and completed with the involvement of Edward Pearce Casey and consulting engineer Bernard Green, the building is celebrated for its classicizing façade and elaborately decorated interior, constructed from granite, marble, mahogany, bronze, and gold. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965, it remains the centerpiece of the Library of Congress complex, standing adjacent to the John Adams Building and the James Madison Memorial Building.