Barack Obama: “Today is one of those moments when you can't help but appreciate the extraordinary success of their efforts.”

We designed the center not to be some lifeless mausoleum.

I hope this center will serve as an affirmation of just how special, how precious our democracy truly is.

Of course, we did not accomplish everything we set out to do. No administration does. Some of the exhibits reflect unfinished business, in some cases, my own shortcomings and mistakes, in some cases because - as a sign I kept on the…

They're meant to remind us of who we can be, to remind us of what's possible, so we can forge ahead.