Exhibitions

The Declaration's Promise: A Revolutionary Idea

David M. Rubenstein Treasures Gallery, Second Floor, Thomas Jefferson Building
July 3, 2026–July 3, 2027

The Declaration’s principles became the shared vision of a new democratic way of government. Its ideals of equality, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness place human dignity and the rights of the individual at the forefront of our national consciousness. In its language, Americans have heard a call to rally for independence and self-government, to right longstanding injustices, and more. This exhibition shares collections from the Library of Congress that demonstrate Americans’ engagement with the Declaration. The scope of that engagement reflects the richness and complexity of the American experience.

Thomas Jefferson's Library

Southwest Pavilion, Second Floor, Thomas Jefferson Building
April 11, 2008–Ongoing

Take a trip through a re-created version of Jefferson’s library, which assembles 6,487 volumes that founded the Library of Congress, and learn how one of America’s greatest thinkers was inspired through the world of books.

Here to Stay: The Legacy of George and Ira Gershwin

Gershwin Gallery, Ground Floor, Thomas Jefferson Building
December 11, 2008–Ongoing

The exhibition celebrates the lives and work of George and Ira Gershwin through music manuscripts and other documents from the Gershwin collection that chronicle their lives and careers. The display includes George’s piano and desk, Ira’s typing table and typewriter, and self-portraits in oil by each brother.

Herblock Gallery

Online Only

Celebrates the work of editorial cartoonist Herbert L. Block—better known as "Herblock"—with items drawn from the Library's extensive Herbert L. Block Collection.

The Two Georges: Parallel Lives in an Age of Revolution

Get to know George Washington and King George III in their own words in this exhibition, which brings together their papers from the Library of Congress and the Royal Archives for the first time. Explore their parallel lives, from their early years through the revolution that brought them into conflict to their overlapping years as president and king.

Baseball Americana

Explores baseball’s roots, its changing traditions, and the game today through a collection of items that cannot be found anywhere else.