Live! At the Library (of Congress) Has Extended Hours, Rare Access

One of our favorite DC federal attractions has recently impressed us again! The world’s largest library — the Library of Congress — last summer started a Happy Hour series one day a week, extending its open hours on Thursdays to allow visitors after 5 pm as well as other exciting behind-the-scenes tours.

Since it opened in 1897, many have considered the Jefferson Building of the LOC the most beautiful, educational, and interesting building in Washington. And now even those Washingtonians stuck at their desks all day can experience its splendor one night per week.

To celebrate its 125th year, the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building and all of the Library’s exhibitions will be open for extended hours on Thursdays from 5 to 8:30 pm in what LOC is calling Live! At the Library.

Visitors are invited to enjoy happy hour drinks and food available for purchase in the Great Hall, and some nights will even include special conversations, music, performances, films, and workshops that showcase the broad range of holdings at the national library.

Past Live! events have included U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón reading, a rare opportunity to view the Giant Bible of Mainz, and a one-night-only pop-up of the flute vault collection… including James Madison’s crystal flute that Lizzo recently made famous.

Every Library of Congress visitor, regardless of age, must have a free time-entry pass to enter the Thomas Jefferson Building. So reserve your timed entry pass here (up to 10 passes per day, as available).