Folger Shakespeare Library
Home to the world's largest Shakespeare collection, offering rare books, engaging exhibits, and a charming Tudor-style cafe.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Folger Shakespeare Library
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the world's largest Shakespeare collection, offering rare books, engaging exhibits, and a charming Tudor-style cafe.
"A treasure for book lovers, with incredible exhibits and a peaceful, historic atmosphere."
☕ Cafe on Weekends
Quill & Crumb cafe is open to the public on weekends only. Perfect for a literary break!
📚 Free Entry, Donate!
Entry is free, but a $15 donation is recommended to support this treasure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rare Books Collection
Exhibition Galleries
Marvel at the world's largest collection of Shakespearean folios and rare manuscripts.

Quill & Crumb Cafe
Tudor-designed interior
Enjoy coffee and treats in a stunning cafe with dark academia vibes.

Exhibitions
Main Galleries
Explore thoughtfully curated exhibits on Shakespeare and related historical topics.

Historic Building
Throughout the Library
Admire the architecture and intricate details of this literary landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Events
Weekend Cafe Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Cafe on Weekends
Quill & Crumb cafe is open to the public on weekends only. Perfect for a literary break!
📚 Free Entry, Donate!
Entry is free, but a $15 donation is recommended to support this treasure.
🎭 Check Performance Schedule
The Folger Theatre hosts amazing shows. Book tickets in advance!
✨ Explore Beyond Shakespeare
Don't miss the vast collection beyond just Shakespeare's works!
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Cafe on Weekends
Quill & Crumb cafe is open to the public on weekends only. Perfect for a literary break!
📚 Free Entry, Donate!
Entry is free, but a $15 donation is recommended to support this treasure.
🎭 Check Performance Schedule
The Folger Theatre hosts amazing shows. Book tickets in advance!
✨ Explore Beyond Shakespeare
Don't miss the vast collection beyond just Shakespeare's works!
🚶♀️ Kid-Friendly Activities
Engaging puzzles and scavenger hunts make it fun for kids 6+.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Folger Shakespeare Library for its exceptional collection of rare books and its beautifully curated exhibitions, offering a deep dive into Shakespeare and Renaissance literature. The unique Tudor-style cafe, Quill & Crumb, is a major draw, especially on weekends, providing a charming atmosphere for relaxation and study. While the library is free to enter, donations are highly encouraged to support its preservation efforts.
"Do not miss!
Started the visit in the cafe to knock out some work and was so pleasantly surprised by every single room in this place!
I am by no means a Shakespeare aficionado or enthusiast but this entire collection was so well curated and easy to navigate I didn’t want to leave. The walls are covered in recreations of illustrations, the lighting is dim but still light enough to read. And… It’s not just Shakespeare!
Seriously a vast collection. All the docents were pleasant and so knowledgeable. There is also a theatre with performances daily.
Would and will return! Can’t wait to tell everyone I know to visit!"
Catie Voglio
"Excellent Shakespeare resources, family friendly. Very knowledgeable docents and staff. We enjoyed sleuthing to reveal hidden pictures, learning about the development of the printing press, examining the map of Shakespeare and delighting in the art both inside and on the outside of the building. Unfortunately, viewing the theater was not possible. They said they were preparing for a show and it could be viewed another time- this assumes we can make multiple visits. Hopefully they can come up with a solution in the future."
Dorothy M.
"The Shakespeare Library may not be large, but its facilities are impressively modern and thoughtfully designed.
Today, I was lucky to visit as the library was open to the public, and I truly enjoyed the experience. The space is welcoming, functional, and reflects a deep respect for readers and researchers alike. I really hope to return someday with more time to dive deeper into study and exploration."
vivi Chanle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Folger Shakespeare Library is located at 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC. It's easily accessible by Metro, with the Capitol South (Orange, Silver, Blue lines) and Federal Center SW (Orange, Silver, Blue lines) stations being the closest. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk from the National Mall.
Street parking in the Capitol Hill area can be challenging. It's recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services. There are also several parking garages in the vicinity, but they can be expensive.
Yes, the Folger Shakespeare Library is generally open to the public on weekdays for exhibitions and exploring the building. However, the popular Quill & Crumb cafe is typically open to the public only on weekends.
The Folger Shakespeare Library has made efforts to be accessible. It's advisable to contact them directly or check their official website for the most up-to-date information on accessibility features for specific areas.
Opening hours can vary, especially for the cafe and special events. It's best to check the official Folger Shakespeare Library website for the most current hours of operation for exhibitions and other facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Folger Shakespeare Library's exhibitions is typically free. However, a recommended donation of $15 is encouraged to help support their collections and programs.
Visiting the exhibition spaces at the Folger Shakespeare Library is free, though donations are greatly appreciated. Tickets are required for performances at the Folger Theatre and for special events like afternoon tea.
The Folger Shakespeare Library houses the world's largest collection of Shakespearean materials, including original quartos and folios. While not all original plays are on permanent display, special exhibitions often feature these invaluable artifacts.
Docents are often available to provide insights and answer questions about the collections and exhibits. While formal guided tours might be scheduled, engaging with the knowledgeable staff is a great way to learn more.
Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the exhibition areas and enjoy the atmosphere. If you plan to attend a performance or have a meal at the cafe, you'll want to allocate more time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore fascinating exhibitions featuring rare books and manuscripts, admire the stunning architecture, enjoy a coffee at the Quill & Crumb cafe (weekends), and potentially catch a performance at the Folger Theatre.
Yes, the Folger Shakespeare Library is family-friendly! They offer engaging activities like puzzles and scavenger hunts designed to make learning fun for children aged 6 and up.
Exhibits at the Folger often focus on Shakespeare's works, his life, the Elizabethan era, and the history of printing and literature. They are well-designed, informative, and sometimes thought-provoking.
While the main exhibition areas are for viewing, the Quill & Crumb cafe offers a unique atmosphere for studying or working, especially on weekends. The library also has spaces for researchers, though access may require prior arrangement.
The Folger Theatre is an integral part of the Folger Shakespeare Library, hosting a variety of performances, often including Shakespearean plays and other classic works. It's a venue for live theatrical experiences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Folger Shakespeare Library features the charming Quill & Crumb cafe. It's known for its cozy atmosphere and literary-themed offerings.
The Quill & Crumb cafe is typically open to the public on weekends only. It's a popular spot for coffee, tea, and light bites.
The cafe offers a selection of beverages like iced teas and lemonades, as well as food items such as grilled cheese, avocado tartines, and mac and cheese.
Yes, you can have lunch or a snack at the Quill & Crumb cafe, which is open on weekends. They offer a variety of light meals and treats.
The Folger Shakespeare Library is located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, which has numerous restaurants and cafes offering a wide range of cuisines. You'll find many options within walking distance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in exhibition areas, but it's always best to check for any posted restrictions or ask a staff member.
Absolutely! The stunning architecture, the unique interior of the Quill & Crumb cafe, and the displays of rare books offer many beautiful photo opportunities.
The grand entrance, the Tudor-style cafe interior, and the exhibition halls with their curated displays are all excellent spots for photography. The exterior architecture is also quite photogenic.
Flash photography is typically not allowed inside museums and libraries to protect delicate artifacts and exhibits. Always adhere to signage and staff instructions regarding flash use.
While you can photograph the exhibition spaces, direct photography of extremely rare or fragile manuscripts might be restricted to protect them. Check specific exhibit guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that while general entry is free, donations are appreciated. Plan for about 1-2 hours to explore the exhibits, which should be a good amount of time for younger attention spans. The library's location is also convenient for combining with other D.C. attractions.
📚 Book Lovers & Literary Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to experience the Quill & Crumb cafe for a literary-themed coffee break, especially on weekends. Even if you're not a Shakespeare scholar, the library's collection is presented in a way that is accessible and fascinating, revealing the broader context of Renaissance literature and culture.
☕ Cafe Goers & 'Dark Academia' Fans
Remember that the cafe is typically open to the public only on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly. Even if you're not staying for a long period, it's worth stopping by to experience this unique and visually stunning space that has captured the imagination of many on social media.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Folger's Literary Treasures
Beyond Shakespeare, the Folger's collection extends to a vast array of Renaissance and early modern English literature, manuscripts, and historical documents. These materials provide invaluable resources for scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering insights into the cultural, social, and intellectual life of the period. The library frequently curates exhibitions that highlight these treasures, making them accessible to the public.
Experiencing these original texts is a profound moment for many visitors, offering a unique perspective on the enduring power of Shakespeare's words and the era in which he lived. The careful preservation and thoughtful presentation of these items make the Folger a must-visit for anyone interested in literature and history.
Quill & Crumb: A Literary Cafe Experience
While the cafe is a public amenity, it's important to note that it's typically open to the general public only on weekends. During the week, it may be more accessible to researchers or those attending specific events. Visitors often praise the quality of the coffee, teas, and light fare, with items like grilled cheese and avocado tartines receiving positive mentions.
The Quill & Crumb offers a perfect respite for those exploring the library's exhibitions or simply seeking a quiet, inspiring spot to read or work. Its popularity on platforms like TikTok and Instagram highlights its appeal as a 'hidden gem' and a must-visit for those who appreciate a blend of good food, great ambiance, and a deep connection to literature.
Engaging the Next Generation of Readers
These activities are thoughtfully crafted to be both fun and educational, providing a rewarding experience for children aged six and above. Upon completion of these tasks, children often receive a small reward, adding an extra layer of excitement to their visit. This approach ensures that even those new to Shakespeare can find something to enjoy and learn.
By incorporating these interactive elements, the Folger transforms a visit into an adventure, fostering a love for literature and history from an early age. It demonstrates that the library is not just a repository of old books but a dynamic space for discovery and engagement for all ages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit