Kendra S. Horn: “Presidential libraries are a valuable resource for historians, faculty professors, and the public. Over the years…”

“Presidential libraries are a valuable resource for historians, faculty professors, and the public. Over the years, Presidential libraries have evolved into elaborate institutions. They house the official papers of a former President. They have museums. They have conference facilities and classrooms. The cost of building and maintaining these facilities can be substantial. The George Bush Library, located at Texas A&M University, cost $22 million from citizens and foundations. Former President Clinton's library foundation is attempting to raise $200 million to cover the cost of his library complex. To establish a Presidential library, representatives of a sitting President can set up a private foundation to receive contributions, obtain a site, and build a facility. After it is built, the structure is deeded over to the Federal Government, along with an operating fund, in some cases, and is run by the National Archives. Through their private foundations, Presidents and their associates are free to raise unlimited amounts of money for their libraries. There are no limits on contributions. There is no public disclosure. This secretive fund-raising process can become an invitation for abuse or accusations of influence peddling. H.R. 577, introduced by our distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Duncan), would change that.”