Clinton Presidential Library and Museum

Monday morning we drove from our camping site at the WalMart in Little Rock, Arkansas to the William Jefferson Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. It has been opened for about 4 years. The building is a very modern structure that cantilevers out over part of the Arkansas River. This dramatic glass building represents a "bridge to the 21st century."

There are 3 floors comprising the public spaces. The ground level is basically your security checkpoint, a ticket desk, and the presidential limousine President Clinton used during his 8 years in office.

The second floor has an orientation theater with a 12 minute film, narrated by President Clinton. It features details on his childhood years, education, and career in public service which culminates with his presidency. It was a very well done film and the theater was very comfortable. Also on this level, is a full-scale replica of the White House Cabinet Room that utilizes interactives to introduce visitors to the critical decisions made under this administration.

At this level there is also a detailed timeline with key events listed and videos are presented that introduce each of the 8 years. There are also alcove exhibits on either side of this level with copious documents, photographs, and memorabilia displayed. Of course, everything supports a positive opinion on everything during the Clinton administration....but that is the main purpose of all the presidential libraries and museums, so one cannot be critical of that fact.

The third level highlights more of Bill Clinton's biographical materials and mementos during his childhood years. There are also several exhibits showing "Life at the White House" through the splendor of state events and gifts. A complete table setting is displayed on this floor showing how things had been set up for a particular state dinner. Very beautiful and I have included a photo of that below.

The third level has a full-scale replica of Bill Clinton's Oval Office and I have included a photo of that as well. The Oval Office sure had a lot of knick-knacks and I'd hate to be the one having to dust all of that stuff everyday!

Our opinion: We felt it was well worth our time to visit this library and museum. We enjoy all of the presidential libraries very much, and I think we've now seen them all. For a president that had served 2 terms, however, it seemed like there should have been more to see. Even President Ford's museum in Grand Rapids, Michigan seemed to house more memorabilia....and he had a very short administration, although a long term of public service.
That being said, we still think that you can benefit from checking this library out if you are ever in the Little Rock area.

Full-scale replica of the Clinton Oval Office. Example of tabe setting for a state dinner.