Library of Congress - View this location on map Built 1886-97 (Smithmeyer & Pelz; Edward P. Casey, architects) 10 1st Street, SE, Washington , DC Historical Library Of Congress - View this location on map Established in 1800, the Library of Congress ranks as one of the largest and finest in the world. Although founded primarily to serve the Congress, is field of service gradually expanded to serve all government agencies, serious scholars, other libraries, and the general public. The Library was originally located in the Capitol, but by 1881 it was apparent that a separate building was needed to house its expanding collections and activities. The Jefferson Building was constructed between 1888 and 1897. 1st Street and Independence Avenue, SE, Washington, District of Columbia Historical, Cultural

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