The Historic Image Collection is D.C. Public Library's second largest image collection, consisting of photographs and prints organized by subjects related to District life and history. The images are arranged in alphabetical order by title as many images are undated.
The Library has accepted donations, purchased, and collected images for the Historical Image Collection since the early 1920s. Therefore, the collection has a variety of sources and much of it is of unknown origin. Collection strengths include the built environment, including streets, buildings, and monuments, as well as early Washingtonians.