October just got brighter in Washington, D.C. The Library of Congress is rolling out its popular Live! At the Library series this month, opening the doors of the magnificent Thomas Jefferson Building for free evening visits every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. Guests can sip happy-hour drinks in the Great Hall, wander exhibitions after hours, and even step inside the breathtaking Main Reading Room — usually reserved for researchers only.
Each Thursday brings a new reason to visit. On October 8, the African and Middle Eastern Reading Room hosts an open house with collection displays, including rare Arabic manuscripts. October 15 celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a drop-in open house at the Hispanic Reading Room, complete with papel picado crafts, trivia and family-friendly activities. October 22 is a musical and brainy night: a concert celebrating Morocco’s intertwined Jewish and Muslim musical traditions, plus a special “Who Knew?” Trivia Night marking 50 years of the American Folklife Center. The month closes on October 29 with “Our Common Table: The Sweets That Bring Us Together,” a delicious look at American history through desserts, ending with a dessert social.
All events are free, and one ticket grants access to the evening’s program, the exhibitions and the happy hour. Reserve at loc.gov/live and make a Thursday date with the world’s largest library.
Photo: Library of Congress / Carol M. Highsmith
