Presidential Libraries: Harry S. Truman Library Announces $25 Million Transformation

From the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA):

 The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum is launching a significant renovation of its facilities and programs. This is the Truman Library’s first major renovation in more than 20 years and the largest since the museum opened its doors in 1957. This $25-million project is planned to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the start of Truman’s presidency in 2020 and aims to dramatically transform the museum with updated technology, interactive displays, and participatory learning opportunities.  The renovation project is expected to bring significant economic development to Truman’s hometown and state through expanded operations and increased visitation and tourism. The museum’s last day open to the public is Monday, July 22, 2019, before the museum closes for approximately one year.

The project includes a strategic expansion and renovation of the Library’s public spaces, including the installation of a new Truman permanent exhibition, addition of visitor-friendly amenities, and enhancement of educational and community programming. The all-new, 12,000-square-foot permanent exhibitions with state-of-the-art interactive experiences, a comprehensive educational strategy, and improved storytelling will make the Truman Library a hub for exploration and experiential learning that engages a 21st century audience.

“At its heart, the Truman Library is an educational institution,” said Library Director Dr. Kurt Graham. “We are so thrilled to be able to offer a 21st century experience and interpretation of one of the great proponents of American democracy.”

On April 12, 1945, Vice President Harry S. Truman dramatically and unexpectedly ascended to the presidency in the final months of World War II. President Truman went on to lead our nation through eight of the most explosive years in history. Today, the conflicts he faced and the decisions he made— ending the war in Japan, the Marshall Plan, United Nations, NATO, the recognition of Israel, desegregating the military, and the Korean War— continue to shape our democracy and our place in the world.

The Truman Library Institute has already raised $23 million in support of the project and has enjoyed generous and enthusiastic support from the local community.

The museum entrance will be moved to the east side of the building, where a 3,000-square-foot addition will offer a dramatic entrance to Truman’s presidential library. The museum will be reinvented by nationally-acclaimed museum planning and design firm Gallagher & Associates, whose credits include the International Spy Museum and the National World War II Museum, in collaboration with Monadnock Media and architectural firm The Clark Enersen Partners. JE Dunn Construction has been awarded the building contract.

To learn more about the project, visit the Truman Institute’s Website

See Also: Truman Library Online Collection

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