HIGH CLASS READING!

Library of Congress ~ 4.19.11

"A library is the most enduring of memorials, 

the trustiest monument for the preservation of an event or a name or an affection; for it , and it only, is respected by wars and revolutions, and survives them."

~ Mark Twain, American humorist, author & lecturer (1835-1910)

Library of Congress ceiling

We visited the Library of Congress - getting there in time for a FREE docent-led tour. Each docent provides basic info about the Library of Congress, and then shares tidbits of trivia that they have a passion for! This was my second tour & our guide was particularly interested in the hall "themes" that told the story of the ornate, colorful ceiling & wall paintings. 

Minerva ~ Goddess of Knowledge

A tiled mosaic of Minerva, Goddess of Knowledge, is located at the head of the marble staircase that leads to the LOC Reading Room. 

BTW, pictures can only be taken of the architecture (Italian Renaissance style) and it's a NO-NO!! in the special exhibits & collections halls.

wall art & quote

If you don't see yourself calendaring a visit to Wash DC in the near future, the LIBRARY OF CONGRESS website will provide an amazing peek at this public facility. 

dedicated to SLE & MB

 

AND - I don't imagine your library has statues like this... 

 flowers that remind you of Easter eggs...

...or a view of the Capitol Building. 

What an incredible day!