Access to Library Buildings & U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
All visitors entering any Library building must pass through a metal detector and have their belongings screened by an x-ray machine staffed by U.S. Capitol Police. All those exiting any Library building must pass through an electronic theft detection system and open all bags, etc., for inspection by U.S. Capitol Police.
All Library buildings are fully accessible. The ADA entrances for visitors and researchers are indicated on the floor plans. General visitors requiring ADA access to the Jefferson Building Great Hall and exhibitions should enter through the Driveway level below the Grand Staircase at First Street SE.
Researchers with reader registration cards may use the Second Street Library of Congress staff entrance for entering the Jefferson Building. See building maps for location.
Related Links:
- Maps and Floor Plans (showing researcher-designated entrances)
- General Hours for Library of Congress Buildings
- Hours for Reading Rooms and Research Centers
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center (CVC)
The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center is the newest addition to the U.S. Capitol complex, and is the entryway for all visitors to the U.S. Capitol. The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center is open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Inauguration Day. Visitors may access the CVC via the First Street entrance, or by a tunnel from the Jefferson Building from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Prohibited items in the CVC are different than those prohibited at the Library of Congress (see link below).
Related Links:
Last Updated: 06/08/2011
