Carla Hayden: The Library of Congress Is Open to All

The video discusses the evolution of the Library of Congress from a reference tool for Congress to the largest library in the world, serving the public. It explains the borrowing policies, where only Congress members can check out materials, but the public can access them on-site or through interlibrary loans. The role of the Librarian of Congress as the CEO and manager of the US Copyright Office is highlighted, showing how copyright deposits have expanded the library's collection. The video concludes with predictions about libraries becoming more technologically advanced and maintaining their relevance as trusted information sources.

What is the primary function of the Library of Congress today?

• A reference tool exclusively for Congress

• A public library where anyone can check out books

• The largest library in the world serving both Congress and the public

• A digital library with no physical presence

Who can check out materials from the Library of Congress?

• Students from US universities

• International researchers

• Only members of Congress and their staff

• Any US citizen

What additional role does the Librarian of Congress hold?

• Head of the National Archives

• Chief Librarian of the United Nations

• CEO of the Library of Congress and manager of the US Copyright Office

• Director of the Smithsonian Institution

How did the Library of Congress expand its collection?

• By selecting from copyright deposits

• Through donations from the public

• By purchasing rare books from around the world

• Through international library exchanges

What is expected of libraries like the Library of Congress in the future?

• They will become obsolete due to digital media

• They will focus solely on historical document preservation

• They will only serve academic institutions

• They will remain trusted sources of information and become more technologically advanced