Established by public law in 1977, the Library of Congress Center for the Book promotes books, reading, libraries and literacy through its programs in Washington and by working closely with its Affiliate Centers for the Book in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa and Northern Marianas.
Programs include a diverse range of events, series, lectures, partnerships and other initiatives designed to fulfill the mission of the national Center for the Book at the Library of Congress. The Center and its Affiliates play a major role in the annual Library of Congress National Book Festival.
Many of these resources and programs are funded under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.