What is the primary role of the Library of Congress?

The primary role of the Library of Congress is to engage in the collection and preservation of documents of national interest and importance. This institution serves as the national library of the United States, housing a vast collection of books, recordings, photographs, maps, and manuscripts. Its mission is to ensure that the rich heritage of the nation's literary and historical materials is preserved for future generations.

By collecting a wide array of materials, including those that reflect the country’s cultural, historical, and legislative heritage, the Library plays a crucial part in making these resources accessible to the public and researchers. This preservation and collection ensure that significant documents that shape the nation's identity are available for education, scholarship, and public use.