Orientation Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who will facilitate the session?

   Any of our reference librarians can provide an orientation, as well as give students guided research practice time. Librarians are assigned to sessions based on availability. Historians/specialists are also able to conduct orientations, depending on the nature of the request.

2. When does the Manuscript Division provide instruction sessions? 

   We will make every effort to provide instruction during the library's regular hours of operation between the hours of 8:30am and 5:00pm. Please use the Orientation Request Form to request your session or visit at least one month in advance of your desired instruction date. Keep in mind that your students will benefit the most from a library instruction session when they have already been introduced to your assignment and have had a chance to discuss their research topics with you.

3. Where does the instruction occur?

   We facilitate in-person sessions in the Manuscript Reading Room, located in the Madison Building in Washington, DC. Please keep in mind that our conference rooms and class spaces are very limited and we cannot accommodate large groups. Our Reading Room is also a very active one being used concurrently by researchers and we are not able to utilize it exclusively for class visits. We are also able to facilitate sessions remotely through Zoom. If you are looking for additional remote resources for your class, you might also want to check out our Resources for Teachers: Online Primary Sources from Manuscript Division research guide.

4. We just love history and want to take a tour- is that an option?

   The Manuscript Reading Room is a closed-stacks facility and does not offer experiential tours.  For those wishing to visit the Library to experience its rich history and splendid architecture, we recommend visiting the Thomas Jefferson building, which regularly has exhibitions that feature collection material from the Manuscript Division. More information about entry and visiting is available here.

5. Is the Library of Congress fully accessible?

   Library of Congress buildings are fully accessible. Please indicate any ADA related needs at least five days in advance of your visit by contacting ADA@loc.gov or (202) 707-6362. More information for visitors regarding accessibility is available here.