The Gerald R. Ford Library collects, preserves, and makes accessible to the public a rich body of archival materials on U.S. domestic issues, foreign relations, and political affairs during the Cold War era, focusing on the Ford administration. It also offers a wide variety of special events, speakers, book signings, forums, educational workshops, films, and other programs. And, in addition to the permanent timeline exhibit on the lives of Gerald and Betty Ford, the Library mounts several small temporary exhibits each year.
The Library is part of the Presidential libraries system of the National Archives and Records Administration, a Federal agency. Unlike other Presidential libraries, the Ford library’s library and museum components are geographically separate. The Library is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on the North Campus of the University of Michigan, while the Museum is in Grand Rapids, Michigan, 130 miles west of Ann Arbor.
The 1974-77 Presidential papers of Gerald Ford and his White House staff form the core Ford Library collection. These are supplemented by the pre- and post-presidential papers of Gerald Ford, the papers of Betty Ford, collections of Federal records, and more. Former government officials have donated personal papers, researchers in the period have given copies of research interviews, and private individuals associated with the issues and events of the time have given their materials.
Many important materials from our textual and audiovisual collections have been digitized and are now available online.
The Library is open to the public without appointment. Advanced consultation with an archivist is recommended to ensure that there are materials relevant to your topic and that those materials are open to research.
President Ford's life is told through a permanent exhibit of over 100 seldom-seen documents and photos, plus a biographical film.
Gerald Ford, the 25th Amendment, and the American Vice-Presidency
Now on display
This original temporary exhibit honors the 50th anniversary of Gerald R. Ford’s Vice-Presidency. The exhibit features artifacts from the Museum's collection. It examines Gerald Ford's unique ascent to the Vice-Presidency, and explores how the office has changed over time.
All programs are held at the Library unless stated otherwise
Date | Event |
---|---|
Exhibit in Ann Arbor | |
|
Gerald Ford, the 25th Amendment, and the American Vice-Presidency Ongoing This original temporary exhibit honors the 50th anniversary of Gerald R. Ford’s Vice-Presidency. The exhibit features artifacts from the Museum's collection. It examines Gerald Ford's unique ascent to the Vice-Presidency, and explores how the office has changed over time. |
Events in Ann Arbor | |
April 18, 2024 7:00 PM |
How a President Should Be Join us for a captivating, virtual panel discussion, "How a President Should Be," featuring four distinguished thought leaders of diverse backgrounds. Gain unique insight as they delve into the qualities, skills, and vision necessary for effective presidential leadership. Panel guests include Michael Abramowitz, Alexis Coe, Errin Haines, and Luke Nichter. This event is free and open to the public. |
The Ford Library welcomes individual students and classes to visit the Library for educational opportunities. For those unable to visit the Library in person, you can still conduct research using online materials.
In person educational opportunities are suspended until further notice.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, conveniently located on the University of Michigan's North Campus, offers a prestigious venue for a meeting, reception, or dinner.
General availability for all spaces is Monday – Friday between the hours of 8 AM – 9 PM. Contact the Library for information about scheduling an event, rental fee structure, or to review regulations on use of the facility and the application process. Events must be consistent with the public perception of the Library as an educational, research, or cultural institution (no weddings, proms, or similar events).
Call: 734-205-0569 / E-mail: Terra Brock
The Library accepts a limited number of college work-study students, interns, and volunteers each year to assist with processing, preservation, and digitization of textual and audiovisual holdings. Student workers, eligible for the College Work-Study Program at the University of Michigan, and interns are often graduate students in archival studies, while volunteers range from high school students to retirees.
College work study, internship, and volunteer opportunities are suspended until further notice.