The U.S. Naval Observatory Library had its beginnings in 1830 as a Depot of Charts and Instruments responsible for checking chronometers and preparing navigational data. Today it is the largest astronomy library in the United States. The library has 800 pre-nineteenth century books including works by Galileo, Copernicus, Kepler and Newton. The collection includes technical works in all areas of astronomy, textbooks, popular astronomy books and publications of amateur astronomical groups. Include also are most of the journals related to astronomy usually from the beginning volume.
Located on Massachusetts Avenue, NW, the building was designed by American architect, Richard Morris Hunt. Access is limited but interested people may call the library to visit.
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U.S. Naval Observatory (view as slideshow) |
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| The Naval Observatory is led by Naval Captains and the library is a civilian job. | The beautiful fountain in the center of the library. | The library as it looks today. | ||||
Additional information
- Website: U.S. Naval Observatory Library
- Virtual library photos submitted by Sally Bosken (sally.bosken@usno.navy.mil | 202-762-1463), Director of the Library, U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington, DC.