Museum · Washington, D.C.
Library of Congress (Thomas Jefferson Building): free tickets, timed passes & hours
The Thomas Jefferson Building of the world's largest library, opposite the Capitol: the Great Hall, the Main Reading Room overlook and exhibitions.
Independent guide, not the official Library of Congress website. Official links are under Sources.
Library of Congress is free to enter.
- Open today 10:00–17:00.
- Every visitor needs a free timed-entry ticket: up to 30 days ahead, plus free same-day tickets online at 9am ET. Up to 20 per booking; groups of 21+ use a form.
Before you go
How to actually get in for free
- Free admission with a free timed-entry ticket: Every visitor needs a free timed-entry ticket: up to 30 days ahead, plus free same-day tickets online at 9am ET. Up to 20 per booking; groups of 21+ use a form.
- Thursday is the late night (to 8pm) with Live! at the Library; it needs a free 5pm timed ticket.
- Main Reading Room walkthroughs: Tuesday-Friday 10:30-11:30am and 2-3pm, Thursday 5-7pm, with free first-come tickets in the Great Hall.
- Enter under the grand staircase on First Street SE; free coat and bag check on the ground floor.
- Closed Sundays and Mondays.
All free options
Who gets in free, and when
| Free option | Who | Conditions | Book? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Always freeFree admission with a free timed-entry ticket | everyone | — | Yes |
Tickets & tours
Best-rated tickets and tours: Library of Congress
Ratings and prices from the booking partners; prices may change.
Practical
Opening hours & how to get there
| Mon | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tue | 10:00–17:00 |
| Wed | 10:00–17:00 |
| Thu | 10:00–20:00 |
| Fri | 10:00–17:00 |
| Sat | 10:00–17:00 |
| Sun | Closed |
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10am-5pm; Thursday 10am-8pm; closed Sunday, Monday and select federal holidays. Last entry 30 minutes before closing.
10 First St SE, Washington, DC 20540, USA
Also free nearby
Make a free afternoon of it
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FAQ
Library of Congress: common questions
Is Library of Congress free?
Yes — Library of Congress is free to enter.
Do I need to book for free entry to Library of Congress?
Every visitor needs a free timed-entry ticket: up to 30 days ahead, plus free same-day tickets online at 9am ET. Up to 20 per booking; groups of 21+ use a form.
What day is Library of Congress closed?
Library of Congress is closed on Mondays and Sundays. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 10am-5pm; Thursday 10am-8pm; closed Sunday, Monday and select federal holidays. Last entry 30 minutes before closing.
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Sources
Where this comes from
- loc.gov/visit/ · checked Tuesday, 27 October 2026
Every free rule is checked against the official source and re-checked on a schedule. Spotted a change? Tell us.