Zuck Bucks
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Change of subject, but it is crazy how expensive president libraries are to build, and they only get more expensive.
I get why they are around as a history for the president, but I am glad that they are not built with public money. (At least I dont htink that they are.)
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Chat:
Presidential libraries in the U.S. are primarily funded through a combination of private donations, foundation support, and public funding:
1. Private Donations & Foundations – When a president leaves office, private fundraising efforts, often led by a nonprofit foundation, collect funds to build the library. These donations can come from individuals, corporations, and other organizations.
2. National Archives & Public Funds – Once the library is built and turned over to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the federal government takes over the operation and maintenance costs, using taxpayer funds.
3. Endowments – The presidential foundation typically provides an endowment to help with ongoing costs, especially for programming and special exhibits.Newer libraries have higher endowment requirements to reduce the burden on taxpayers.
There is (was?) a lot of controversy about the location of the Obama library on Chicago's south side. Displaced homes, traffic issues, etc.
- Displacement & Gentrification Concerns
Local activists worry that the center will increase property values and rents, displacing long-time, lower-income residents. Groups like the Obama Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) Coalition pushed for legal protections to ensure affordable housing and prevent displacement.
- Use of Public Parkland
Critics argue that placing the center in Jackson Park, a historic public park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, takes away green space. Some wanted it built on vacant lots nearby instead. A lawsuit by Protect Our Parks tried to stop construction but ultimately failed.
- Lack of a Traditional Presidential Library
Unlike past presidential libraries, Obama’s center will not be run by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), and it will not house physical presidential records. Instead, documents will be digitized, raising concerns about public access to historical materials.
- Construction & Environmental Issues
The project required removing hundreds of mature trees, which sparked environmental concerns. Additionally, some have questioned the cost (over $500 million) and whether taxpayer money should support infrastructure improvements related to the center.
Despite these controversies, supporters argue that the center will bring jobs, tourism, and investment to the South Side.
