One would be hard-pressed not to appreciate the splendor of the Library of Congress Main Reading Room. Granted, I may have an employee bias, but it truly is a magnificent space. A local blogger once referred to it as the "Sugar Ray Robinson" of interior spaces, with grandeur that "can't be beat."

Photo by Deanna McCray-James

Twice each year, the Library opens the reading room for a special public open house. The winter open house takes place next week on the federal Washington's Birthday (Presidents' Day) holiday, Monday, Feb. 20, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

More than 4,200 visitors attended last year's open house. And Library staff expect large crowds again, as this event has become increasingly popular.

James Sweany, head of the Local History and Genealogy Reading Room, talks about doing research at the Library/Photo by Deanna McCray-James

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the Library's genealogical collections and services, view recipes from our collection of presidential and White House cookbooks, become acquainted with the "Ask a Librarian" online reference service and check out the "Chronicling America" historic American newspaper resource, featuring president-related topic pages such as this one on Teddy Roosevelt.

A highlight of the open house is the card catalog – particularly popular with the kids, many of whom have never seen one before.

A sign of our technological times?

Visitors peruse the Library's card catalog/Photo by Deanna McCray-James

Another special treat for will be a read-aloud with Miss International, Ciji Dodds. She'll be reading "A. Lincoln and Me," by Louise W. Borden.

So grab the kids and get thee to the Library next Monday. See you soon!