Former President Joe Biden is facing significant challenges in fundraising for his presidential library, a situation that has raised questions about the necessity and funding of such institutions. Current efforts have yielded little success, even as Biden’s foundation struggles to attract donations.
The concept of a presidential library has evolved over time, with varying approaches taken by different leaders. For instance, Harry S. Truman, who left office in 1953, returned to his hometown of Independence, Missouri, where his friends and supporters built him a modest library and museum at a cost of $1.7 million. In stark contrast, Barack Obama‘s library, which is under construction in Chicago, has ballooned to an estimated cost of $1 billion. The 60,000-square-foot structure, characterized by its pyramid-like design, will feature amenities such as a basketball court, a far cry from the traditional libraries of yesteryear.
Biden’s library foundation, which was seeded with $4 million from leftover inauguration funds, has struggled to garner financial support. Notably, in 2024, even during his presidency, the foundation received no donations. Rufus Gifford, a former ambassador to Denmark and longtime fundraiser for Obama, now leads Biden’s foundation. His challenge lies not just in raising funds but also in redefining the narrative around Biden’s presidency, which some critics label as one of the weakest in modern history.
The question of why presidents require expensive libraries remains pertinent. Critics argue that existing government buildings could serve the purpose without incurring additional costs. Some suggest more creative approaches to fundraising could help. For example, Biden might consider engaging the immigrant community, which has seen significant growth during his administration. Estimates suggest that approximately 20 million undocumented immigrants have entered the country, and a nominal donation from this group could potentially raise substantial funds for the library.
While it is unlikely that former President Obama would provide direct financial assistance, he could extend an offer of shared space within his library for Biden’s materials. Given their eight years together in office, such an arrangement might not only ease financial pressures but also symbolize their longstanding partnership.
As Biden’s library fundraising efforts continue, it remains to be seen whether innovative strategies can turn the tide. The concept of a presidential library, once seen as a dignified tribute, now faces scrutiny amidst the realities of modern political and financial landscapes.
