James Madison Memorial Building

The James Madison Memorial Building is a modern government and library facility in Southeast Washington D.C. that extends across seven above-ground and three below-ground levels. It contains specialized reading rooms dedicated to geography, maps, newspapers, current periodicals, and research materials on the performing arts.

The building opened as the third Library of Congress facility after Congress approved its construction in 1965 and work began in 1971. Its completion created expanded space for the nation's library to house its growing collections and serve researchers.

The Memorial Hall features a marble statue of James Madison alongside eight quotations from the fourth president, which visitors encounter as a tribute to his legacy. This display reflects how the building honors a founding figure central to American governance and thought.

The structure is organized into specialized sections that serve different research needs and are easy to navigate for visitors of all backgrounds. The building features multiple entrances and exit points designed to accommodate visitor flow efficiently.

A bronze sculpture titled 'A Cascade of Books' descends five stories down the main entrance wall, creating a visual flow of books in motion. This artwork is visible from across the plaza and serves as an unexpected artistic focal point on the exterior.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1976

Official opening: May 28, 1980

Architectural style: modern architecture

Floors above the ground: 7

Floors below the ground: 3

Elevation above the sea: 23 m

Made from material: marble, bronze

Part of: United States Capitol Complex

Address: 101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540

Website: https://loc.gov/visit/online-tours/james-madison-memorial-building

GPS coordinates: 38.88674,-77.00471

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:22