National Library of Education

The National Library of Education is housed in the Department of Education building and holds textbooks, journals, research reports, and government documents focused on schooling and teaching methods. The collection exceeds 16,000 items spanning multiple topics related to American educational development.

The collection traces its roots to educator Henry Barnard's personal library, which he donated to the Education Department in 1867. The institution was formally established as a national library in 1994 through Congressional action.

The institution houses 16,000 government reports on education dating from 1870, documenting the evolution of American educational practices and policies.

Visits take place Monday through Friday between 9 AM and 5 PM, but advance scheduling is necessary before coming. The facility is in central Washington and can be reached by public transportation.

The building serves as a Federal Depository Library, meaning it collects and preserves official government documents alongside its education materials. This dual role makes it an important center for safeguarding government records for public access.

Inception: 1994

GPS coordinates: 38.88649,-77.01880

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:49