Jefferson's Legacy: A Brief History of the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress occupies a unique place in American civilization. Established a legislative library in 1800, it grew into a national institution in the 19th century. Since WW II, it has become an international resource of unparalleled dimensions. This documnet is a history of the Library of Congress, Americas oldest national cultural institution, which will be 200 years old in the year 2000. Thomas Jeffersons personal library is the librarys core. Discusses the collections, the buildings, & the Librarians of Congress. Reading list. Color photos.

Though this new illustrated history of the Library of Congress occasionally suffers from poor editing, it is nonetheless an attractive and desirable supplement to the existing body of historical literature on one of the nation's most venerable institutions. Cole, a historian and head of LC's Center for the Book, emphasizes the varied personalities who have shaped the institution, including the towering figure of Thomas Jefferson, whose personal library provided the core of what was to become the world's largest library. Illustrated throughout with color plates that suggest the variety and richness of the collection, the book is brimming with fascinating facts and anecdotes that should make it popular among general readers. Published in anticipation of the library's upcoming bicentennial in 2000, Cole's new history, while it is no replacement for Charles A. Goodrum's The Library of Congress ( LJ 3/15/75), should appeal to public and academic library patrons.
- William Emory Buchanan, Clarion Univ., Pa.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.