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Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building

Washington, District of Columbia

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The building is home to the Gutenberg Bible, one of only three perfect vellum copies known to exist.

The building is designed in the Beaux-Arts style, featuring elaborate murals and sculptures that reflect the grandeur of the late 19th century.

Originally, the Library of Congress was housed in the U.S. Capitol until it moved to its own building in 1897.

Thomas Jefferson sold his personal library of 6,487 books to the Library of Congress in 1815 after the original collection was destroyed in the War of 1812.

The dome of the Main Reading Room rises 160 feet above the floor and is adorned with a mural by artist Edwin Blashfield.

L. Frank Baum, author of 'The Wizard of Oz,' was inspired by the building's grandeur when he visited Washington, D.C.

The Great Hall features inscriptions and quotes from famous thinkers and writers, emphasizing the importance of knowledge.

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