List of the largest libraries in the United States
The largest public library in the United States—and the largest library in the world—is the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., which is the "de facto" national library of the United States. It holds more than 167 million items, including "more than 39 million books and other printed materials, 3.6 million recordings, 14.8 million photographs, 5.5 million maps, 8.1 million pieces of sheet music and 72 million manuscripts." Other than the Library of Congress, the largest public library in the United States is the New York Public Library, while the largest research library in the United States is the Harvard Library.
Ohio University
Vernon R. Alden Library serves the Athens campus as the central library facility. The collection of the Ohio library contains over 2.3 million units of microfilm material, 13,500 periodical subscriptions and 3 million printed volumes, making it one of the 100 largest libraries in the United States. The university maintains a complex system of archives in its libraries. A university archive maintains and displays rare books and collections, among other treasures is a 13th-century Bible. The Learning Commons, located on the building's second floor, is open 24 hours, 5 days a week allowing students to meet and access library facilities. Laptops and other accessories are available through technology services at the reference desk. The library is organized on the Library of Congress system. Outside Alden Library and directly behind Cutler Hall is Wolfe Garden, a small enclave in the shape of the State of Ohio, and features native Ohio trees and plants, providing a pleasant spot for contemplation..