Originally conceived as a humble reference collection for Congress, the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building now stands as a monument to knowledge. It is a testament to American ideals. Today we will explore the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building together.
The Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building is the oldest of the Library of Congress buildings. It first opened its doors to the public on November 1, 1897. However its story begins much earlier.
In 1800, Congress established the Library of Congress. It was meant to serve the legislative branch. For a time the Library of Congress lived in the Capitol Building. But in 1814, British troops burned the Capitol during the War of 1812. They destroyed the Library of Congress.
Thomas Jefferson a former president stepped in. He offered his personal book collection to Congress. Jefferson had spent 50 years collecting books. His collection was one of the finest in the United States. In 1815, Congress purchased Jefferson’s books and a core foundation for the library was formed. In 1980, the building was named in his honor.
As the Library of Congress grew it needed more space. Ainsworth Rand Spofford, then Librarian of Congress, proposed a new building. Congress approved the construction in 1886. It took eleven years to complete this Beaux-Arts masterpiece.
Paul J. Pelz was the primary architect for much of the project. Later, Edward Pearce Casey succeeded him. The Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building stands proudly on Capitol Hill. Its elaborate facade reflects the Classical Revival style.
Inside the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building, one finds some of the richest public interiors in the United States. The building showcases the work of American sculptors and painters. The art reflects the progress of civilization. It is personified in great figures.
Look up to the second-floor portico of the front entrance. Nine busts of great men gaze back. They include Demosthenes, Emerson and Goethe. Each was selected by Ainsworth Rand Spofford.
Notice the copper dome. It was originally gilded in gold leaf. It drew criticism for competing with the Capitol Building.
Before 2000, a book tunnel linked the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building to the Capitol. An electric book conveying apparatus transported volumes between the buildings.
The Main Reading Room is a sight to behold. Eight giant marble columns support symbolic statues of knowledge. Religion, Commerce, History, Art, Philosophy, Poetry, Law, and Science are represented. Sixteen bronze statues of historical figures overlook the room. These figures exemplify the virtues represented by the plaster statues.
The Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building also houses the Coolidge Auditorium. Since 1925, it has hosted over 2,000 concerts.
The Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building is more than just a library. It is a monument to human knowledge. It is a celebration of American achievement.