Rich and I had such a great time on our drive through Shenandoah, that we thought we'd head outdoors again this past weekend and go apple-picking. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans. With lots of rain being predicted for all day Saturday, we completely switched gears and went to the
Library of Congress. I know. Big switch.
Well, I don't even know where to start. The LOC is actually made up of three buildings. We went to the historic
Thomas Jefferson Building which is probably what most people think of as the Library of Congress. The next tour wasn't starting for about an hour and a half, so we figured we'd look at the exhibits in that time, then take the tour and go home. We ended up spending a little more than four hours there. And, we never made it past the Great Hall and the exhibits. We only left because we were tired (and probably on sensory overload). We're already planning a return visit.
I think I spent an entire hour just walking around and gawking. Yes, gawking. The upper walls and ceilings of the Great Hall are covered with inscriptions and beautiful artwork. I can't even describe it. I've decided not to try. Instead, I strongly suggest you take an
online art and architecture tour. Wherever possible, enlarge the picture for a full view. I have to warn you though, be prepared to spend some time. It's worth every minute.
We also spent quite a bit of time in the current exhibits. Besides the artifacts and descriptions, there were also a lot of interactive displays. There were so many people there that it made it difficult to actually experience them. And, no photography allowed in the exhibits. Can't make it to DC in the near future? You know what? The LOC website is a wonderful resource. You can experience the
exhibits and interactive displays in the comfort of your own home from your computer. Besides the links I've provided you really should explore
myLOC.gov to see all it has to offer. After all, it's not just Congress' library. It's YOUR library too. Check it out.
Rich and I had such a great time on our drive through Shenandoah, that we thought we'd head outdoors again this past weekend and go apple-picking. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other plans. With lots of rain being predicted for all day Saturday, we completely switched gears and went to the Library of Congress. I know. Big switch.
Well, I don't even know where to start. The LOC is actually made up of three buildings. We went to the historic Thomas Jefferson Building which is probably what most people think of as the Library of Congress. The next tour wasn't starting for about an hour and a half, so we figured we'd look at the exhibits in that time, then take the tour and go home. We ended up spending a little more than four hours there. And, we never made it past the Great Hall and the exhibits. We only left because we were tired (and probably on sensory overload). We're already planning a return visit.
We also spent quite a bit of time in the current exhibits. Besides the artifacts and descriptions, there were also a lot of interactive displays. There were so many people there that it made it difficult to actually experience them. And, no photography allowed in the exhibits. Can't make it to DC in the near future? You know what? The LOC website is a wonderful resource. You can experience the exhibits and interactive displays in the comfort of your own home from your computer. Besides the links I've provided you really should explore myLOC.gov to see all it has to offer. After all, it's not just Congress' library. It's YOUR library too. Check it out.
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