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Information for Researchers - Using the Library of Congress

How to Expedite Book Service

To expedite book service please observe the following:

Be prepared to present a Library-issued reader registration card.

Request in the Main Reading Room or the Center Room, Adams Building, only materials found in the general collections. Do not request a title if the information appearing with the call number indicates that the item is found in a special collection (e.g., Rare Books and Special Collections, Geography and Map, Microform) or a division housing non-Roman alphabet materials (e.g., Asian [Orien] or African/Middle East).

Request books in the reading room located in the building where the materials are housed.

Avoid submitting requests during periods of greatest delay. Remember that delivery time may vary from forty-five minutes to an hour or more, with the longest delays occurring during peak academic periods and on afternoons and Saturdays.

Request only "most desired" material during busiest hours.

Remember that patrons are limited to ten requests per hour.

Remember that requests for materials in the general collections shelved in the building where the request is placed must be submitted at least one hour before the Library closes. Materials coming from another building must be requested at least ninety minutes before closing time.

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  March 14, 2022
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