Joe Biden is encountering significant challenges in raising funds for his presidential library, prompting discussions about the necessity and cost of such institutions. As former presidents increasingly look to establish elaborate libraries, questions arise regarding their funding sources and the public’s interest in supporting these projects.
The situation is particularly stark for Biden, whose library foundation has struggled to attract donations. In a notable contrast, the library of former president Harry S. Truman, which opened in 1957, was constructed at a modest cost of $1.7 million. Truman, who left office without ceremony in 1953, returned to his hometown of Independence, Missouri, where local supporters built the facility without excessive public funding.
In contrast, the library of Barack Obama, set for completion in 2026, is projected to cost around $1 billion. Located in Chicago’s Jackson Park, this structure is characterized by its large, pyramid-like design and includes amenities such as a basketball court. While the Obama library is funded by private donations, Biden’s foundation has reportedly received no contributions in recent years, with its initial funding coming from $4 million leftover from Biden’s inauguration.
The foundation is now led by Rufus Gifford, a former ambassador to Denmark and a veteran fundraiser for Obama. Gifford’s challenge is to secure the necessary financial support to help Biden establish his library. Suggestions for potential fundraising strategies have included leveraging Biden’s connections, particularly with Obama, who could provide support in various forms, though a direct financial bailout seems unlikely.
Additionally, some have proposed unconventional ideas for fundraising, such as seeking donations from the undocumented immigrant community. With estimates suggesting that Biden’s administration has allowed around 20 million undocumented immigrants into the country, there are calls for creative solutions to bolster the library’s funding. If each individual contributed just $10, it could potentially yield up to $200 million.
Critics question the need for presidential libraries in general, particularly with many existing government buildings available for repurposing. The expectation that the public should fund lavish libraries for former presidents has been met with skepticism, especially given Biden’s current standing as one of the least popular presidents in modern history.
As Biden’s library fundraising efforts continue, the discussion around presidential libraries and their funding highlights broader themes of public support, historical preservation, and the legacy of U.S. leaders. The outcome of Biden’s efforts may set a precedent for how future presidents approach their own library projects and the expectations surrounding them.
