Research library with the collection of a U.S. president's papers
This article is about the network of libraries in the United States. For other libraries, see Presidential Library.
Official seal of the presidential libraries
The United States presidential library system stands as a nationwide network, currently comprising 16 distinct institutions. These are meticulously administered by the Office of Presidential Libraries, an integral component of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Their primary, and arguably most thankless, task is the preservation and accessibility of the vast trove of papers, official records, diverse collections, and other historical materials generated by every president of the United States commencing with Herbert Hoover, who served as the 31st president from 1929 to 1933. Beyond the archival and library functions, these facilities also host compelling museum exhibitions, offering the public a curated glimpse into the complexities and often bewildering realities of the American presidency. It's almost as if they're attempting to make sense of the chaos for posterity.
Historically, before the mid-20th century, the disposition of presidential papers and personal effects was, rather remarkably, considered largely the private property of the sitting president. This archaic notion often led to the scattering, loss, or even deliberate destruction of invaluable historical documents, a testament to the fleeting nature of individual priorities over collective memory. It was Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president (1933–1945), who, with a rare flash of foresight, proposed a more enlightened path: leaving his extensive papers to the public domain within a dedicated building he himself donated on his sprawling Hyde Park, New York, estate. This singular act of civic responsibility catalyzed a profound shift. Following Roosevelt's precedent, a series of legislative acts were subsequently enacted, firmly establishing the public custody of these crucial documents and, in doing so, formalizing the presidential library system. These progressive laws now mandate the creation of a public archive library for each presidential term, with NARA assuming immediate control and stewardship of all official documents upon the expiration of a president's term of office. Additional, often labyrinthine, provisions dictate the precise conditions and timelines under which these documents are finally made available for public scrutiny, a process rarely as swift as one might hope. While these earlier presidential libraries are not officially sanctioned or directly maintained by NARA, several institutions have nonetheless been organized to house the legacies of presidents who predated Hoover and the formal inception of the Presidential Library Office. These efforts, though disparate, are no less vital to the historical record.
In a move that signals either adaptation or a reluctant surrender to modern realities, the library sites are increasingly referred to as "presidential centers." The Barack Obama Presidential Center, representing the 44th president (2009–2017), has notably adopted an entirely new operational model. This innovative, or perhaps simply pragmatic, approach involves providing fully digitized records, which are then meticulously preserved and administered by NARA. However, the physical archival materials themselves are lent to a privately operated Presidential Center for public display. One might wonder if this is efficiency or simply a way to offload overhead. [1]
Overview
NARA Presidential Libraries Passport
For every president since the era of Herbert Hoover, a presidential library has been meticulously established within their respective home state. These institutions serve as invaluable repositories, safeguarding an immense array of documents, significant artifacts, ceremonial gifts of state, and comprehensive museum exhibits that collectively illuminate the former president's multifaceted life and extensive career, encompassing both their political ascendancy and professional endeavors outside the Oval Office. Beyond their archival and exhibition roles, each library proactively curates and hosts a dynamic series of public programs, aiming to foster engagement and understanding of the presidency. When a president's term concludes and they depart from office, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) promptly initiates a specialized presidential materials project. This critical undertaking involves securely housing and systematically indexing all presidential documents, a painstaking process that continues until these materials are legally mandated for public release, whether through a traditional physical library building or, increasingly, via accessible digital platforms. It’s a perpetual cycle of collection and eventual, often delayed, revelation.
The genesis of this structured system can be traced back to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, which proudly opened its doors and was dedicated on June 30, 1941, setting a powerful precedent for future administrations. More recently, the George W. Bush Presidential Center marked a significant milestone, becoming the thirteenth such institution when it was dedicated on May 1, 2013, continuing the tradition of memorializing presidential legacies.
In a rather quaint effort to encourage public engagement and perhaps even a touch of historical tourism, the National Archives and Records Administration utilizes a unique "passport" program to promote visits to the various presidential libraries. Those rare individuals who manage to complete the arduous task of visiting every single library within the system are, for their dedication, bestowed with a crystal paperweight by NARA. One can only imagine the thrill. [2]
Presidential libraries outside NARA
class=notpageimage| Locations of the NARA-administered (red) and other (blue) U.S. presidential libraries
The formal presidential library system, as governed by NARA, currently comprises thirteen institutions that are either fully or partially operated by the agency. [n 1] [4] However, it is crucial to recognize that numerous libraries and museums dedicated to earlier presidents have also been established, though these exist entirely outside the purview of the official NARA presidential library system. These independent entities are typically operated by a diverse range of private foundations, venerable historical societies, or even state governments, reflecting a more fragmented, organic approach to historical preservation that predates the federal standardization. Notable examples of these privately or state-run institutions include those dedicated to James K. Polk, William McKinley, Rutherford B. Hayes, Calvin Coolidge, Abraham Lincoln, and Woodrow Wilson. For instance, the renowned Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois, is wholly owned and meticulously operated by the state of Illinois itself, showcasing a model of state-level dedication to a presidential legacy.
The Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace presents a particularly convoluted and historically charged case. It was not, in its original incarnation, an integral part of the federally administered presidential library system. While the Nixon Presidential Materials Staff, specifically tasked with managing the extensive Nixon presidential materials under the stringent terms of the Presidential Recordings and Materials Preservation Act, did fall under NARA's umbrella, the physical Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace was privately owned and operated by the nonprofit Richard Nixon Foundation. This unusual dichotomy stemmed directly from the political maelstrom of the Watergate scandal, which necessitated extraordinary measures to secure and control Nixon's records, ultimately asserting public ownership over what had previously been considered private property. In January 2004, after decades of this unique arrangement, Congress finally intervened, passing landmark legislation that paved the way for the establishment of a federally operated Richard Nixon Presidential Library in Yorba Linda, California. This legislative action aimed to bring the Nixon archives fully into the federal system, ensuring greater public access and oversight. A year later, in March 2005, the Archivist of the United States and John Taylor, the director of the Richard Nixon Library & Birthplace Foundation, formally exchanged letters outlining the precise requirements that would enable the Nixon Library to transition and become the twelfth federally funded presidential library operated by NARA by the year 2007. Under this agreement, the Nixon Foundation would retain ownership of the campus and continue to operate certain aspects of the Nixon Library complex in collaboration with NARA. The transition officially began on October 16, 2006, when Timothy Naftali assumed his tenure as the first federal director of the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace, signaling the federal government's direct involvement. Following this, in the winter of 2006, NARA commenced the monumental task of transferring approximately 30,000 presidential gifts from the Nixon Presidential Materials Staff, then housed in College Park, Maryland, to the newly integrated Yorba Linda facility. Finally, on July 11, 2007, NARA officially began its operational control at the Nixon Library site, and the facility's designation was formally changed to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, thus concluding a complex and historically significant chapter in the evolution of presidential archives. [5] [6] [7]
In May 2012, commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of its founding, the Ulysses S. Grant Foundation made a pivotal decision, selecting Mississippi State University as the permanent, distinguished location for Ulysses S. Grant's presidential library. This move solidified the university's role as a major center for Grant scholarship, ensuring that his legacy would be preserved and studied in a dedicated academic environment. Furthermore, the esteemed historian John Simon undertook the monumental editorial task of compiling Grant's extensive letters into a comprehensive 32-volume scholarly edition, a monumental work subsequently published by Southern Illinois University Press, providing an invaluable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike. [8] [9]
On April 30, 2013, both legislative chambers of the North Dakota Legislative Assembly collectively passed a bill that appropriated a substantial 3 million from non-state sources, a common mechanism to ensure broad support and viability for such ambitious projects. Beyond these brick-and-mortar aspirations, Dickinson State University is also the proud home of the Theodore Roosevelt Digital Library. This forward-thinking initiative has forged strategic partnerships with other venerable institutions, including the Library of Congress and Harvard University, among others. These collaborations have been instrumental in digitizing and making accessible an impressive collection, currently boasting over 25,000 items available online, democratizing access to Roosevelt's rich historical record. [10]
On April 12, 2016, a collaborative effort known as Harding 2020, involving the Harding Home, the Ohio History Connection, and Marion Technical College, publicly unveiled detailed plans for a significant investment of $7.3 million. This substantial sum was allocated for the ambitious undertaking of establishing the Warren G. Harding Presidential Center. The plans were comprehensive, encompassing the meticulous restoration of the Harding Home, Warren G. Harding's historic residence in Marion, Ohio, and its surrounding grounds, with the goal of returning them to their authentic 1920s appearance. Adjacent to this restored historical home, a new, expansive 15,000-square-foot presidential center and museum was slated for construction, designed to house and interpret Harding's legacy. Crucially, Harding's presidential papers, which had previously been housed at the Ohio History Connection's headquarters in Columbus, Ohio, were scheduled to be relocated to this new, dedicated center. The culmination of this extensive work was initially projected for completion by the spring of 2020, strategically timed to coincide with the auspicious 100th anniversary of Harding's election to the presidency. However, as is often the case with grand plans, unforeseen challenges arose. The opening was subsequently delayed until September, primarily due to significant back orders on construction materials and various other logistical hurdles. The subsequent onset of the COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these delays, ultimately pushing the museum's grand opening to May 12, 2021, a testament to the unpredictable nature of both historical preservation and global events. [11] [12]
In May 2017, a pivotal announcement was made regarding the Barack Obama Presidential Center, the planned repository for the presidential library of Barack Obama. In a significant departure from established tradition, it was declared that this center would not be integrated into the NARA system, rendering Obama the first president since Calvin Coolidge not to have a federally owned and operated facility dedicated to his presidential papers. [13] Instead, this new "model" involves a collaborative partnership between the nonprofit Obama Foundation and NARA. Under this arrangement, NARA will continue to oversee the digitization and accessibility of Obama's presidential documents, ensuring their federal preservation and public access. However, the physical center itself, including its museum and public spaces, will be privately operated by the Obama Foundation. It was further specified that the City of Chicago would retain ownership of the land and facilities, creating a unique hybrid model that observers are still dissecting for its long-term implications for presidential archives. [14] [15] [16]
History
Historically, the papers generated during a president's tenure were largely regarded as personal property, a rather perilous custom that often led to their scattering, destruction, or simple misplacement upon the conclusion of a term. [17] It’s a miracle any coherent record survived. While a substantial number of these pre-Hoover collections have since found a more secure home within the Manuscript Division of the venerable Library of Congress [18], many others remain dispersed among various other libraries, local historical societies, and even private collections, a testament to the haphazard nature of early American archival practices. The unfortunate consequence of this fragmented approach is that a considerable volume of invaluable historical materials has been irrevocably lost or, whether by accident or design, deliberately destroyed, leaving gaps in our collective understanding.
In a pioneering act of historical preservation, Lucretia Rudolph Garfield, the widow of James A. Garfield (who served as president from March 4, 1881, until his untimely death on September 19, 1881), initiated the construction of a dedicated Memorial Library wing. This addition was integrated into their family home in Mentor, Ohio, a mere four years after her husband's tragic assassination. This early, privately conceived "presidential library" was a remarkable testament to personal dedication. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site was subsequently operated through a collaborative arrangement between the National Park Service and the Western Reserve Historical Society until 2008, at which point the historical society formally transferred full operational control to the National Park Service, ensuring its continued preservation under federal stewardship.
National Archives
A pivotal moment in the evolution of presidential archives occurred in 1939 when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt made the unprecedented decision to donate his extensive personal and presidential papers to the federal government. This act fundamentally redefined the nature of presidential records. Simultaneously, Roosevelt further committed by pledging a portion of his ancestral estate at Hyde Park, New York, to the United States, providing a physical home for his legacy. To realize this vision, a non-profit corporation was collaboratively formed by friends and supporters of the president, specifically tasked with raising the necessary funds for the construction of the library and museum building. Roosevelt's groundbreaking decision was rooted in his deeply held conviction that presidential papers constituted an indispensable part of the national heritage, and as such, ought to be readily accessible to the public, not hoarded as private keepsakes. He formally requested that the National Archives assume custody of his papers and other historical materials, entrusting them with the administration of his pioneering library. [17] This commitment to public access was revitalized on June 30, 2013, when new interactive and multimedia exhibits, meticulously developed by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), were unveiled to the public. This marked the first comprehensive renovation of this historic library since its original opening, ensuring its continued relevance in the digital age. [19]
Inspired by Roosevelt's visionary initiative, Harry S. Truman subsequently resolved in 1950 that he, too, would establish a dedicated library to house his presidential papers. His resolute commitment was instrumental in galvanizing congressional action, recognizing the burgeoning need for a standardized approach to preserving these invaluable national assets.
Presidential Libraries Act of 1955
Responding to the growing realization that presidential papers were a national treasure, Congress passed the landmark Presidential Libraries Act of 1955. [20] This pivotal legislation formally established a structured system wherein libraries would be privately erected but subsequently federally maintained, striking a delicate balance between philanthropic initiative and public responsibility. The act was a clear encouragement for future presidents to follow Roosevelt's lead, urging them to donate their historical materials to the government and, in doing so, ensuring both the diligent preservation of presidential papers and their eventual availability to the citizens of the United States. Under the provisions of this foundational act and subsequent amending legislation, nine additional libraries have since been successfully established, each meticulously following the prescribed model. In nearly every instance, private and other non-federal public sources generously provided the requisite funds for the initial construction of the library facilities. Once these grand structures were completed and ready for operation, the private organizations responsible for their creation typically transferred ownership and operational control to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) for ongoing maintenance and administration. The library and museum originally founded for Richard Nixon stood as a notable exception to this rule for many years, remaining privately owned and managed. However, even in this unique case, Nixon's heirs ultimately reached a comprehensive agreement that allowed it to finally become a fully integrated NARA facility, bringing it into alignment with the broader federal system.
It is a rather astonishing historical footnote that until 1978, the prevailing view among presidents, legal scholars, and professionals alike, a tradition stretching back to the very first president, George Washington, was that the records generated by the president or their staff while in office constituted the personal property of the president. This meant they were at liberty to take these documents with them upon leaving office, a practice that, in retrospect, seems almost impossibly casual given their national significance. The earliest presidential libraries, including Roosevelt’s, were conceived and built upon this very concept of voluntary donation of private property. It was through persistent and often arduous negotiation that NARA successfully persuaded subsequent presidents to voluntarily donate their invaluable historical materials to the federal government, ensuring their secure housing within a dedicated presidential library managed by NARA, thereby safeguarding them for future generations.
Deeds of Gift
With the singular and historically anomalous exception of the presidency of Richard Nixon, the management and handling of presidential records for all administrations from Hoover through Carter (spanning the years 1929–1969, and then 1973–1980) were primarily governed by their individual deeds of gift. These legal instruments essentially formalized the transfer of ownership of each president's records to the public, a crucial step away from the archaic notion of private possession. [21]
Nixon presidency and the Preservation Act of 1974
In the tumultuous aftermath of the Watergate scandal, a crisis that profoundly shook the foundations of American governance and public trust, Congress took decisive and unprecedented action. It unequivocally asserted public ownership and control over all materials originating from the Nixon White House (covering the period of 1969–1973). This monumental shift was enshrined in the Presidential Recordings and Materials Preservation Act of 1974 [21] [22]. This legislation was a direct response to concerns about the potential destruction or manipulation of evidence, ensuring that the historical record of a presidency embroiled in scandal would be preserved and eventually made accessible for public accountability.
Presidential Records Act of 1978
Building upon the precedent set by the Nixon era, the Presidential Records Act of 1978 fundamentally transformed the legal status of presidential documents. It unequivocally established that all presidential records, particularly those that meticulously document the constitutional, statutory, and ceremonial duties discharged by the president, are, by law, the inherent property of the United States Government. This removed any ambiguity about private ownership. Consequently, upon a president's departure from office, the Archivist of the United States assumes immediate and complete custody of these records, ensuring a seamless and legally mandated transfer of historical materials. Crucially, the act simultaneously provided for the continued existence and development of presidential libraries, designating them as the official, enduring repositories for these vital governmental records, thus cementing their place in the nation's archival infrastructure.
Presidential Libraries Act of 1986
The Presidential Libraries Act of 1986 introduced further significant modifications to the operational framework of presidential libraries. [23[ A key provision of this act mandated that each new library establish a private endowment, the size of which would be directly linked to the physical scale of the facility. This endowment requirement was not merely a fundraising exercise; NARA specifically utilizes these privately raised funds to offset a portion of the ongoing maintenance and operational costs for each library, shifting some of the financial burden from the federal taxpayer to private philanthropy.
Presidential Historical Records Preservation Act of 2008
The Presidential Historical Records Preservation Act of 2008 brought about an amendment to 44 U.S.C. § 2504, a section of the United States Code. This amendment specifically authorized the provision of federal grants for institutions designated as Presidential Centers of Historical Excellence. The act aimed to support and recognize efforts beyond the direct NARA system that contribute significantly to the preservation and study of presidential history, fostering a broader ecosystem of historical scholarship and public engagement.
Effects of changes in the records laws and modern digital records
While the libraries dedicated to presidents from Hoover through George W. Bush eventually largely conformed to a consistent model—where the former president or their foundation funded and oversaw the construction of a physical facility for NARA to house the library's vast collections—it is important to note that presidents are not strictly required to adhere to this model under the current legal framework (as evidenced by Nixon's library operating outside NARA for many years). Nonetheless, according to a 2023 statement from NARA, recent legislative amendments have dramatically increased the financial endowment that a former president must raise if they do opt to construct a NARA-owned facility. This escalating financial requirement, coupled with the inherent digital nature of modern presidential records—which inherently lessens the need for expansive physical storage space—is poised to significantly alter the landscape of presidential libraries. NARA suggests that these factors may decrease the likelihood that present and future presidents will continue to build traditional, NARA-owned physical facilities, pushing towards models that prioritize digital archives and perhaps more streamlined, less physically demanding centers. It seems even the grand monuments to presidential egos are not immune to the cold calculus of economics and technological evolution. [24]
Holdings
The thirteen presidential libraries, each a testament to a specific era and a single individual's profound impact, collectively safeguard an astonishing volume of historical material. Their holdings encompass over 400 million pages of textual materials, a staggering amount that would overwhelm most mortal minds; nearly ten million photographs, capturing countless moments of historical import and human drama; over 15 million feet (or approximately 5,000 kilometers) of motion picture film, offering moving glimpses into the past; close to 100,000 hours of audio recordings, including discs, audiotapes, and videotapes, preserving voices and events with chilling fidelity; and approximately half a million unique museum objects, each telling a story. This immense and varied collection transforms each library into an invaluable source of information, serving as a vital hub for in-depth research into the multifaceted nature of the American presidency.
Among the most critically important textual materials housed within each library are those meticulously generated by the president and their dedicated staff during the course of performing their official duties. These encompass everything from classified memos to policy directives, speech drafts, and crucial correspondence, forming the raw data of governance. Beyond these official records, the libraries also serve as custodians for a diverse array of physical objects. These include deeply personal items like family heirlooms, objects personally collected by the president and their family, a plethora of campaign memorabilia that charts the course of their political ascent, numerous awards and accolades, and the countless gifts bestowed upon the president by both ordinary American citizens and distinguished foreign dignitaries. These gifts are extraordinarily varied, ranging from heartfelt homemade items, perhaps a child's drawing or a hand-knitted scarf, to priceless works of art and significant diplomatic tokens. Curators within these presidential libraries, alongside their counterparts in other museums across the nation, draw upon these rich and eclectic collections to meticulously assemble compelling historical exhibits, each designed to illuminate specific facets of a presidency and its era.
Further enriching these collections are other significant holdings, notably the personal papers and historical materials generously donated by individuals closely associated with the president. This can include influential Cabinet officials, diplomatic envoys to foreign governments, key political party associates, and even the president's inner circle of family and personal friends. These supplementary collections offer invaluable alternative perspectives and behind-the-scenes insights, often revealing details absent from official records. Additionally, several libraries have undertaken ambitious oral history programs, meticulously producing tape-recorded memoirs from key figures, capturing nuanced recollections and personal anecdotes that might otherwise be lost to time. A third, equally vital, body of materials comprises the papers accumulated by the president both prior to and following their tenure in the Oval Office. Such comprehensive collections provide crucial biographical context, as exemplified by documents pertaining to Theodore Roosevelt's impactful tenure as Governor of New York or Dwight D. Eisenhower's extensive and distinguished military career, demonstrating the continuity of their public service.
It is a rather poignant custom that, with the notable exceptions of John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Jimmy Carter, every American president since Herbert Hoover has either chosen or is expected to be interred at their respective presidential library, making it their final resting place and a permanent monument to their legacy. Kennedy rests at the solemn Arlington National Cemetery, a national shrine; Johnson lies buried at his ranch nestled in the picturesque hill country of Texas, west of Austin; and Carter will eventually be laid to rest near his home in the quiet town of Plains, Georgia. Bill Clinton has designated the William Jefferson Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock, Arkansas, as his future burial site, while George W. Bush will be interred at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, Texas. The eventual burial sites for the 44th president, Barack Obama, the 45th and potentially 47th president, Donald Trump, and the 46th president, Joe Biden, remain, for now, undisclosed. [25]
In a unique geographical arrangement, unlike all other presidents whose libraries are integrated into the NARA system, Gerald Ford's library and museum are physically distinct and geographically separated. They are situated in different parts of Michigan: Ford is interred at his museum in Grand Rapids, while the research-focused library component is located in Ann Arbor, a peculiar split that reflects specific local considerations.
List of presidential libraries
This is a comprehensive list of the presidential libraries, detailing their status, location, and operational entities.
Denotes libraries outside the NARA Presidential Library Office (it should be noted that all post-Hoover administrations have presidential library holdings administered by NARA, but in one specific case, the physical facility will operate outside NARA's direct ownership, and the model for another remains to be officially decided).
• Denotes library without a dedicated presidential site.
• Denotes library where plans are yet to be definitively announced.
#
President
Library name
Location
Operated by
Image
Logo/website
1
Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington at Mount Vernon [26] Opened to public September 27, 2013, offering a scholarly hub dedicated to the Founding Father.
Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, the esteemed private organization preserving Washington's estate.
website
2
Stone Library at Adams National Historical Park Opened to public 1870, this historic site provides insight into two presidential Adams.
National Park Service (NPS), ensuring federal preservation of this unique family legacy.
website
3
Robert H. Smith International Center for Jefferson Studies at Monticello Opened to public 1994, it expands the scholarly understanding of Jefferson's complex mind.
Thomas Jefferson Foundation, dedicated to preserving his home and intellectual legacy.
website
4
The Papers of James Madison at Shannon Library Opened in 1937, with the Papers of James Madison transitioning to a digital format on April 28, 2010, enhancing accessibility.
University of Virginia, a premier academic institution stewarding the Father of the Constitution's documents.
Montpelier
5
James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library Opened to public 1966, this site commemorates the last of the Virginia Dynasty.
University of Mary Washington, overseeing the preservation of Monroe's papers and artifacts.
website
6
Stone Library at Adams National Historical Park Opened to public 1870, sharing the same historic family library as his father.
NPS, maintaining the historical integrity of the Adams family's intellectual contributions.
website
7
The Papers of Andrew Jackson at Hoskins Library Opened to public 1987, this project centralizes the extensive records of "Old Hickory."
University of Tennessee at Knoxville, a key academic partner in this archival endeavor.
website
15
James Buchanan papers at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania A gift from the Buchanan family, transferred to the Historical Society around 1895–1897, offering a window into a tumultuous presidency.
Historical Society of Pennsylvania, a venerable institution preserving regional and national history.
website
16
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Opened to public in 2004 [27], a modern tribute to the Civil War president.
State of Illinois, a unique state-operated presidential library.
website
17
President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library Opened to public 1993, dedicated to the controversial post-Civil War president.
Tusculum College, providing a home for the documents of this often-misunderstood leader.
website
18
Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library Opened to public October 15, 1966, celebrating the Union general and two-term president.
Mississippi State University Library and Ulysses S. Grant Association, a partnership ensuring academic rigor and preservation.
website
19
Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center Opened to public 1916, it is the first presidential library in the nation, predating the NARA system.
Ohio History Connection and Hayes Presidential Center, Inc., a long-standing collaboration for historical stewardship.
website Archived September 1, 2013, at the Wayback Machine
22 and 24
Seeley G. Mudd Manuscript Library Opened to public October 16, 1976, housing the papers of the only non-consecutive president.
Princeton University, a prestigious academic institution acting as custodian.
website
25
William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum The memorial and gravesite opened to the public in September 1907, a century-old tribute to the assassinated president.
Stark County Historical Society, preserving local and national history.
website
26
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Scheduled to open in 2026, a forthcoming landmark in the Badlands.
Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation, driving the creation of this new institution.
website
26
Houghton Library Collection donated in 1943, a significant repository of Roosevelt's early papers.
Harvard University, his alma mater, housing a portion of his extensive archives.
website
26
The Theodore Roosevelt Center at Dickinson State University Launched in 2009, this digital initiative expands access to Roosevelt's materials.
Dickinson State University, a key player in digitizing the Roosevelt legacy.
website
28
Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library Opened to the public in 1990, dedicated to the WWI president and architect of the League of Nations.
Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library Foundation, preserving his birthplace and papers.
website
28
Seeley G. Mudd Manuscript Library Opened to public October 16, 1976, also housing Wilson's academic and political papers.
Princeton University, where Wilson served as president before his political career.
website
29
Warren G. Harding Presidential Center Opened to the public on May 12, 2021 [11], after pandemic-related delays.
Ohio History Connection, managing the legacy of this Ohio native.
website
30
Calvin Coolidge Presidential Library and Museum Opened to the public in 1956, a quiet tribute to "Silent Cal."
Forbes Library, a public library hosting a presidential collection.
website
31
Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum Dedicated August 10, 1962, and rededicated August 8, 1992, marking the official start of the NARA system.
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
website
32
Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum Dedicated June 30, 1941, and rededicated June 30, 2013, the pioneering presidential library.
website
33
Harry S Truman Presidential Library and Museum Dedicated on July 6, 1957, and rededicated December 9, 2001, a testament to the "give 'em hell" president.
website
34
Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home Dedicated on May 1, 1962, and rededicated on October 7, 2019, honoring the WWII general and president.
website
35
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum Dedicated on October 20, 1979, and rededicated October 29, 1993, a striking architectural and historical landmark.
website
36
Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum Dedicated on May 22, 1971, capturing the essence of the Great Society era.
NARA and The University of Texas at Austin, a unique academic partnership.
website
37
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum Dedicated on July 19, 1990, and rededicated October 14, 2016, after its transition to federal oversight.
Yorba Linda, California NARA and Richard Nixon Foundation, reflecting its unique history.
website
38
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum Dedicated on September 18, 1981, and rededicated April 17, 1997, located in his hometown.
website
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library Dedicated on April 27, 1981, serving as the research arm, geographically separate.
39
Jimmy Carter Library and Museum Dedicated on October 1, 1986, reflecting his post-presidency humanitarian efforts.
website
40
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Dedicated on November 4, 1991, offering expansive views and a permanent home for Air Force One.
website
41
George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum Dedicated on November 6, 1997, located at his alma mater.
NARA and Texas A&M University, a strong academic partnership.
website
42
William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Park Dedicated on November 18, 2004, a prominent feature of the Little Rock riverfront.
website
43
George W. Bush Presidential Center Dedicated on April 25, 2013, a significant addition to the Dallas cultural landscape.
NARA and Southern Methodist University, integrating presidential history with higher education.
website
44
Barack Obama Presidential Library
Digital, NARA facilities, marking a new era of digital-first presidential archives.
website
44
Barack Obama Presidential Center Scheduled to open in spring 2026, a privately operated center in his adopted city.
Obama Foundation [29] and University of Chicago [30], a unique collaboration for a modern presidency.
website
45 and 47
Donald J. Trump Presidential Library
Digital, NARA facilities, with plans for a physical center still evolving.
website
45 and 47
Donald J. Trump Presidential Center (in planning), poised to reflect his unique political journey.
Miami, Florida [31]
Miami Dade College [32] [33], a potential partnership for a future presidential center.
46
Joseph R. Biden Jr. Presidential Library
Digital, NARA facilities, the initial phase of preserving his extensive career.
website
46
Joseph R. Biden Jr. Presidential Center (in planning), with details for a physical location yet to be finalized.
Delaware, his home state, likely to house his physical legacy.
Locations of other presidents' papers
Prior to the establishment of the formalized NARA system, the papers of many presidents found homes in a variety of institutions, reflecting a more decentralized approach to historical preservation. For instance, the extensive papers of both Grover Cleveland and Woodrow Wilson were entrusted to Princeton University, where they are meticulously preserved and made available for scholarly research at the distinguished Seeley G. Mudd Manuscript Library. Similarly, the Theodore Roosevelt Association undertook the considerable effort of collecting Theodore Roosevelt's vast papers, subsequently donating them to his alma mater, Harvard University, in 1943. These invaluable documents now reside across its Widener and Houghton libraries, providing a comprehensive resource for studying his dynamic career. [34]
The papers of James Buchanan, a president whose term was fraught with pre-Civil War tensions, were bequeathed to the venerable Historical Society of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, where they continue to offer critical insights into that tumultuous period. In an ongoing effort to centralize and make accessible the records of another pivotal figure, The Papers of Andrew Jackson project, sponsored by the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, is dedicated to compiling Jackson's papers, primarily in a microfilm edition. [35] A similar archival endeavor saw a microfilm edition of Martin Van Buren's papers produced at Pennsylvania State University in 1987, while a more contemporary digital edition of the Papers of Martin Van Buren is currently being developed at Cumberland University, reflecting the shift towards digital accessibility. [36] Concurrently, a significant project is underway on behalf of James Madison, a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Universities of Virginia and Chicago, aiming to comprehensively document the life and contributions of the Father of the Constitution.
For many presidents, particularly those who served before the systematic development of the NARA system, substantial collections of their papers and artifacts may still be found dispersed across multiple private and public institutions, creating a complex web for researchers to navigate. [37] Until the Barack Obama Presidential Center's physical library is fully operational and ready for service, his presidential papers are being securely held in a dedicated facility in Hoffman Estates, Illinois. These materials, with the expected exception of classified documents, have been made available to the public through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) since 2023, ensuring a degree of transparency even during this transitional phase.
See also
• United States presidential memorials
• National Archives facilities § Presidential libraries
• First Ladies National Historic Site
• Jefferson Davis Presidential Library and Museum
• Vicente Fox Center of Studies, Library and Museum
• Quayle Vice Presidential Learning Center
• Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library
• World's Smallest Presidential Library (David Rice Atchison)
• Perdana Leadership Foundation
Notes
• ^ NARA and the Obama Foundation are partnering in a new model, digitizing the Obama presidential records but not creating a new NARA facility. [3]
References
•
• ^ "Information About New Model for Obama Presidential Library". National Archives . February 25, 2019. Retrieved July 25, 2021.
• ^ • "Completing a passport to the president libraries the road to an unusually exciting record". Men’s Journal . September 26, 2022. Retrieved September 26, 2022.
• ^ • Clark, Anthony (May 7, 2017). "Presidential Libraries Are a Scam. Could Obama Change That?". Politico . Retrieved May 25, 2017.
• ^ a b • "National Archives Recognizes Four Historians Who Shaped the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum". Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Retrieved June 1, 2023.
• ^ • "Nixon Library Updates". Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ • "National Archives Names Director of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum" (Press release). National Archives and Records Administration. July 11, 2007. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ • "The National Archives Opens Federal Nixon Library, Releases Previously-Restricted Documents and Tapes" (Press release). National Archives and Records Administration. July 11, 2007. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ • "MSU joins exclusive list as presidential library host" (Press release). Mississippi State University. May 17, 2012. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ • "Collection Overview". Ulysses S. Grant Association. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ • "Legislative Assembly awards funding for creation of TR Library" (Press release). Theodore Roosevelt Center. May 2, 2013. Archived from the original on October 7, 2013. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ a b • "7.3M Harding Presidential Center opens in 2020". The Marion Star . April 12, 2016.
• ^ • "Harding presidential museum opening indefinitely postponed amid COVID-19".
• ^ • Caputo, Blair Kamin, Katherine Skiba, Angela. "Obama Presidential Center breaks from National Archives model". chicagotribune.com . Retrieved April 11, 2018. {{cite news}} : CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
• ^ • "National Archives Announces a New Model for the Preservation and Accessibility of Presidential Records". National Archives . May 3, 2017. Retrieved September 21, 2018.
• ^ • Bowean, Lolly (September 18, 2018). "New legislation outlines terms of Obama center's use of Jackson Park". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved September 20, 2018.
• ^ • Blakley, Derrick (September 18, 2018). "City Breaks Promises Regarding Jackson Park, Obama Presidential Center". CBS Chicago. Retrieved September 20, 2018.
• ^ a b • Gunther, John (1950). Roosevelt in Retrospect . Harper & Brothers. pp. 99–100.
• ^ • "Presidential Papers, Manuscript Division, Library of Congress". Library of Congress. Retrieved January 2, 2012.
• ^ • "History Associates Assists With Content Development for New Exhibit at Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum" (Press release). History Associates. September 27, 2013. Retrieved May 30, 2014.
• ^ • "Presidential Libraries Act of 1955". National Archives . August 15, 2016.
• ^ a b • "Types of Presidential Materials". National Archives . August 15, 2016. Retrieved June 27, 2023.
• ^ • "Presidential Recordings and Materials Preservation Act (PRMPA) of 1974". National Archives . August 15, 2016. Retrieved June 27, 2023.
• ^ • "Presidential Libraries Act of 1986". National Archives . August 15, 2016.
• ^ • "Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Presidential Records and the Presidential Records Act". National Archives . June 9, 2023. Retrieved June 25, 2023.
• ^ • Minor, Elliot (January 10, 2007). "Carter's Hometown Happy with Burial Plan". The Washington Post . Associated Press. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ • O'Brien, Caitlin (April 14, 2011). "Mount Vernon Getting New Library". WRC-TV News. Retrieved September 1, 2014.
• ^ • "Museum History". Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum . Archived from the original on August 7, 2017. Retrieved March 5, 2019.
• ^ • Lutz, BJ (April 30, 2015). "Chicago to Get Obama Presidential Library". WMAQ-TV News . Retrieved September 1, 2015.
• ^ • Clark, Anthony (January 8, 2017). "Obama Foundation Changes Presidential Libraries – Perhaps Forever". medium.com . Retrieved June 3, 2017. [I]t seems quite certain that the Obama Foundation anticipates keeping and operating both the foundation space as well as the museum on its own ...
• ^ Julie Bosman & Mitch Smith, Chicago Wins Bid to Host Obama Library, New York Times , May 12, 2015.
• ^ • Fineout, Gary (September 30, 2025). "Florida officially hands over land for Trump library". Politico . Retrieved September 23, 2025.
• ^ • Dixon, Matt (March 11, 2025). "Trump settles on downtown Miami for his presidential library". NBC News . Retrieved September 23, 2025.
• ^ • Leonard, Kimberly (September 23, 2025). "DeSantis offers Miami land for Trump's presidential library". Politico . Retrieved September 23, 2025.
• ^ • "TR Center – Harvard College Library". theodorerooseveltcenter.org . Retrieved January 23, 2021.
• ^ • "About the Project | The Papers of Andrew Jackson". Retrieved January 23, 2021.
• ^ • "Papers of Martin Van Buren". Retrieved October 7, 2020.
• ^ Montgomery, Bruce P. “Presidential Materials: Politics and the Presidential Records Act.” The American Archivist, vol. 66, no. 1, 2003, pp. 102–138.
• Portions of this article based on public domain text from the National Archives and Records Administration
•
• v • t • e
United States presidential library system Non-NARA libraries
• Lincoln
• Hayes
• McKinley
• T. Roosevelt (planned)
• Wilson
• Harding
• Coolidge
• Obama (planned)
• Trump (planned)
• Biden (potential)
National Archives and Records Administration libraries
• Hoover
• Truman
• Kennedy
• Nixon
• Ford (L)
• M
• Carter
• Reagan
• Clinton
Related
• Garfield National Historic Site
• Presidential memorials in the United States
•
• v • t • e
Lists related to presidents and vice presidents of the United States
Presidents
Professional career
• Assassination attempts and plots
• Desks
• rank
• Pardons
• Vetoes
Personal life
• Age
• Ancestry
• Death
• Families
• children
• Firsts
• Pets
• Scouts
Depictions and honors
• Currency
• Libraries
Vice presidents
• Age
• Spouses
• Green
Distinctions
• Female
• Height
• Received at least one electoral vote
• Unsuccessful major party presidential candidates
• Unsuccessful major party vice presidential candidates
•
• v • t • e
Memorials to, and namesakes of, presidents of the United States By president
• J. Adams
• Madison
• Monroe
• Jackson
• Tyler
• Polk
• Taylor
• Fillmore
• Pierce
• Buchanan
• Lincoln
• Grant
• Hayes
• Garfield
• Arthur
• McKinley
• Wilson
• Harding
• Coolidge
• Hoover
• Truman
• Kennedy
• Nixon
• Ford
• Carter
• Reagan
• Clinton
• Obama
• Trump
• Biden
By topic
• Counties
• Currency
• Presidential library system
•
• v • t • e
United States national libraries
• Department of Agriculture: National Agricultural Library
• Congress: Library of Congress
• Department of Transportation: National Transportation Library
• Department of Health and Human Services / National Institutes of Health: National Library of Medicine
• Department of Education: National Library of Education
Other related libraries and services Law Library of Congress National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Federal Depository Library Program Presidential library system List of U.S. state libraries and archives
•
• v • t • e
Libraries and library science Types of library
• Academic
• Archive
• Branch
• Digital
• shadow
• Hybrid
• Law
• Lending
• Map
• Medicine
• Mobile
• Music
• National
• U.S.
• Prison
• Private
• Public
• Carnegie
• Research
• School
• virtual
• Street
• Tool
• Toy
Types of librarian
• Music
• ensemble
• School
• Library and information scientist
• Library and information science
• catalog
• OPAC
• Electronic resource management
• virtual
• roving
• Weeding
History
• by size
• ancient
• medical
• national
• women
• women
• Commons
• Glossary
• Outline
•
•
Authority control databases International
• FAST
National
• United States • Israel
Other
• NARA • Yale LUX