Three short years ago when it was announced that the new Presidential Library of former President Bill Clinton would be built in Little Rock, the news was met with high enthusiasm by the local business and political community. As the land was cleared and the structure began to rise from the ground, other buildings in the immediate area also began a transformation and a renewed energy seemed to take root regarding the revitalization of the area. Still, nobody was really quite prepared for the excitement the official opening of Clinton Library would bring.
As this is being written, the entire week has been one celebration after another featuring important dignitaries and attention getting “stars". The week features the 42nd president of the Untied States, President Bill Clinton, along with wife Hillary and daughter Chelsea, as the Library is officially opened to the public on Thursday, November 18, 2004. Speakers for the grand opening event will include other former Presidents Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush, as well as our current Commander and Chief, George W. Bush. The opening ceremonies are expected to draw about 30,000 guests on an invitation-only basis. Another 20,000 people are expected to fill neighboring streets to watch the grand opening festivities.
The “star” sightings have caused the biggest buzz among the average person on the street. Such famous faces as Mary Steenburgen, Ted Danson, Tom Hanks, Brad Pitt, Mary Lou Henner, Jennifer Anniston and George Clooney have hosted or attended gala parties and events all week long. And for music fans the spectrum ranges from U2’s Bono to the “Queen of Soul", Aretha Franklin.
But the real “star” of the show this week and for years to come will be the new $165 million Clinton Presidential Library itself.
Immediately upon entering the 150,000 square foot paneled steel and glass structure, your eyes are drawn towards the presidential limousine parked just off to the right, which gives you a perspective of just how mammoth the buildings halls actually are. As you traverse through the many halls, escalators and alcoves you are awash in the rich history that is on display.
You can see perfectly scaled replicas of the White House’s Cabinet Room as well as the Oval Office. Video clips and captions highlighting all of the significant events of each of the Clinton Presidential years are displayed on large 10-foot-high panels. Interactive screens and video footage cover 14 different themes ranging from science and technology to international conflicts and the economy.
Interestingly, the collection also includes the scandals that plagued the presidency. Notice is made to Whitewater, Kenneth Starr and Monica Lewinsky in themed sections called “The Fight for Power", “A New Culture of Confrontation” and “Politics of Persecution".
The third floor alcoves show the more personal, playful and social side of the presidency. There you will find glass-blown sculpture, a bicycle and yellow jersey given to Clinton from Lance Armstrong, a pair of cowboy boots with the Presidential Seal stitched onto them, and hundreds of other gifts from dignitaries, citizens and celebrities from around the world.
If you’re contemplating visiting the Natural State, make certain you add Little Rock and The Clinton Presidential Library to your itinerary. If you’re already a Little Rock area resident, plan on checking it out this year. It doesn’t matter if you were “for” or “against” President Clinton from a political standpoint, the rich history presented within the Library and all of the interesting and delightful displays and information is something each American should see. We’ll see you there. . .