The Library of Congress

Arguably the most beautifully decorated building in the United States, the Library of Congress building (now known as the Jefferson Building) reached its 100th anniversary in 1997 after an eighty million dollar restoration that returned it to its original state. At the turn of the century, Herbert Small, a newspaperman, wrote a guide to the building and its decoration. His text, edited by Henry Hope Reed, is reproduced here. It is preceded by introductory essays by historian and Librarian of Congress Emeritus Daniel J. Boorstin and noted writer Brendan Gill. The planning and construction of the building are detailed in John Y. Cole's essay, followed by an essay on the building as a work of art by Pierce Rice, and discussions of the decorations, paintings, and sculptures by Henry Hope Reed, Richard Murray, and Thomas P. Somma. The volume concludes with a photo essay on the restoration by Barbara Wolanin; a color "schema" of the building; a glossary of architectural and decorative terms; and a biographical dictionary of all the artists, architects, and designers who worked on the building. Throughout, noted photographer Anne Day's color images enhance this splendid book.