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Reader Registration and Access to Library Reading Rooms
Users of the Library's research areas, including Computer Catalog Centers, and Copyright Office public service areas are each required to have a Reader Identification Card issued by the Library. Cards are free and can be obtained by presenting a valid driver's license, state-issued identification card, or passport. Researchers must be 16 and above years of age at time of registration. Direct any questions to 202-707-5278.
Where to Register
Researchers must register in person at the Reader Registration Station located in the Madison Building, Room LM 140 (First Floor, near the Independence Avenue entrance <view campus map>). The Library cannot accept registrations via mail, telephone, or the Internet.
Register Registration (LM 140) Hours:
- 8:30am to 9:00pm - Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday
- 8:30am to 4:30pm - Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday
- Closed Sundays and Federal Holidays
Upon completion of a simple computerized self-registration process, the station attendant will verify the information, take an identification photo, have the reader provide a digitized signature, and issue the printed plastic photo card to the reader.
A Reader Identification Card is a permanent card which remains valid for two years. To ensure patron information has remained unchanged, at the end of the two year period, each reader must renew their card in person by returning to the Reader Registration Station and presenting a valid form of identification.
Requesting Materials in the Library of Congress Online Catalog
Library of Congress registered readers may request materials from the Library’s general collections via the LC Online Catalog (catalog.loc.gov) using their individual "account numbers." Materials will be retrieved for use only in the Library's Main, Local History and Genealogy, and Science and Business reading rooms. In order to use the service, readers must have a Reader Identification Card issued after April 15, 2009.
Special Instructions for Large Groups
Those planning to bring large groups of new researchers to the Library for registration should contact the supervisor of the Reader Registration Station in advance at 202-707-5278 to ensure expeditious processing of the group.
Additonal Access Requirements for Some Reading Rooms
A valid Reader Identification Card is the minimum requirement for access to the Library's public reading rooms. Some reading rooms have supplemental registration procedures and/or conditions of use (some reading rooms require researchers to be 18+ years of age). For more information about the requirements in a particular reading room, one should contact that reading room.
Last Updated: 11/20/2009