The District of Columbia Public Library is a vibrant center of activity for residents and visitors in the nation’s capital. The Library provides environments that invite reading, learning and community discussion and equips people to learn all their lives, to embrace diversity and to build a thriving city. We are proud to be a recognized force in the community for engaging the mind, expanding opportunities and elevating the quality of life.

The District of Columbia Public Library was created by an act of Congress in 1896 "to furnish books and other printed matter and information service convenient to the homes and offices of all residents of the District." The establishment of the Library was largely due to the long and arduous efforts of Theodore W. Noyes, editor of The Evening Star. Mr. Noyes served as president of the Board of Library Trustees for 50 years.   More detail...