The names and quotes in the Great Hall were chosen by Librarian of Congress Ainsworth Rand Spofford (1825–1908) and Charles W. Eliot (1834–1926), president of Harvard University.). The works of these illustrious authors were popular at the time the building was constructed, and they were considered to have made great contributions to literature and the study of history.

• Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
(1547—1616), Spanish Writer

• Victor Hugo
(1802—1885), French Poet and Novelist

• Walter Scott
(1771—1832), Scottish novelist and poet

• James Fenimore Cooper
(1791—1851), American Novelist