Book Lover's D.C.: four essential places to visit in washington, D.C.

Library of Congress Reading Room

I never tire of visiting Washington, D.C. There is so much to see and do, and the city is constantly growing and changing. Each time I visit, there are new monuments and museums to explore.

The city is a delight for lovers of history, architecture, art, science, and museums. There is truly something for everyone. As a book lover, there are four places I highly recommend to my fellow bibliophiles.

1. The Library of Congress

The Library of Congress isn’t just the world’s largest library, it’s a museum and archive housed in a spectacularly beautiful building. See books from Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection, view a Gutenberg Bible that was one of the first books ever produced by a printing press, get your reader’s card and step into the spectacular Reading Room, and marvel at the architecture. 

The library hosts special events and exhibits, so there is always something new to discover.

---

2. Planet Word

The Planet Word museum focuses on the intricacies and joys of words, languages, and books. Even the inside of the elevator has a bookish theme. The interactive exhibits keep visitors of all ages engaged, and the gift shop is equally delightful. Visiting Planet Word is a fantastic experience sure to please any lover of language and literature.
​

---

3. The DAR Library and Museum

Connected to Constitution Hall, which is Washington, D.C.'s largest concert hall, the DAR Library and Museum is a lovely place to spend time. The library specializes in genealogy and history.

When I visited the museum, there was a special “Jane Austen’s World” exhibit featuring clothing and accessories of Austen’s time period. 

There was also a display case featuring a gown and shoes worn by Marian Anderson. The Anderson exhibit was right inside the door and stopped me in my tracks. I was awestruck by this display that captured such an important part of Civil Rights history.

---

4. Folger Shakespeare Library

Fans of the Bard won’t want to miss a trip to Folger Shakespeare Library, which features museum exhibits, a gorgeous reading room, and a literary-themed cafe. There is also a performance space where plays are performed.

Anytime I travel, I make a point to look for libraries, bookstores, and any literary-themed locales that I can visit. Washington, D.C. is full of wondrous possibilities, and I always leave enriched, enlightened, and looking forward to my next visit.

​