Frequently Asked Questions: General

Yes. Screening takes place at all entrances to the Library of Congress, and many public reading rooms also restrict the materials that researchers may bring with them.

To ensure the security of the Library's collections, the type of personal belongings that researchers may bring with them is restricted. As policies differ for different reading rooms, researchers should consult the various reading room home pages for unique restrictions. Several reading rooms also provide lockers for researchers to secure their belongings.

Cloakrooms are available for checking personal belongings in both the Madison and Jefferson buildings.

In general, items that are NOT allowed include, but are not limited to:

• audio devices (includes radios, cassette players, etc.)
• briefcases
• cases for equipment
• computers larger than laptop size
• containers larger than 9.5" x 6.25" (includes paper bags, boxes, backpacks, knapsacks, shopping bags, sleeping bags, etc.)
• drinks (includes bottled water)
• food
• food or drink containers
• handbags or purses larger than 9.5"x6.25"
• luggage
• musical instruments and their cases
• newspapers
• outerwear, e.g. raincoats, overcoats
• pets
• photocopiers larger than hand-held
• scissors or other cutting implements
• televisions
• typewriters
• umbrellas

Mobile phones should be silenced, please use headphones.