Get Access to the Library of Congress Reading Rooms
The Library of Congress has more than 550 miles of shelving and includes a wide range of materials and resources—everything from music to science and maps to films. The Library of Congress is located on Capitol Hill in Washington DC and includes three buildings, all connected by underground walkways. But not everyone can get access to these reading rooms. You must have a reader identification card and know what time each reading room is open.
Instructions
Get Access to the Library of Congress Reading Rooms
1. Get your reader identification card. You can get this free card in the Madison building. You will need to be at least 18 years old and plan to conduct research. The process takes about five minutes.
2. Remember to bring your photo ID and proof of address with you when you apply for your card. A driver's license or passport will qualify as a valid photo ID. A state issued ID will also qualify. You may not use a student ID.
3. Show your reader ID card. You will need to show this to security to get inside the Library of Congress and in each individual reading room. Some reading rooms will require additional registration to use the reading room.
4. Leave prohibited items at home. You will not be able to bring liquids or food into the reading rooms. If you need to eat or get a drink, there are water fountains, coffee shops and cafeterias throughout the Library of Congress buildings.
5. Check other items in the cloak room. Although you will be able to bring paper, pens, your laptop computer, and notebooks inside, all other items are not allowed—including your laptop case. Your cell phone, newspapers, briefcase, and even umbrella will have to be checked before you are allowed in a reading room.
6. Check your camera. Cameras are not allowed inside reading rooms unless you have permission from the supervisor. Even if you get permission, you may not be able to use a flash.
7. Be quiet. Unless you are asking a librarian a question, you are not supposed to talk or disturb the other patrons.
8. Set up your computer at the appropriate area. Each reading room that allows laptop computers will generally have you set up on one side of the room. This is because the sound of the keyboard or fan in the computer could be considered noisy to other patrons.
Tags: Library Congress, reading room, Access Library, Access Library Congress, Congress Reading
