The highly anticipated Barack Obama Presidential Library is set to open in Jackson Park next June, amid a backdrop of ongoing preparations as much of the site remains fenced off. CBS News Chicago recently received a private tour of the venue, featuring insights from the CEO of the Obama Foundation, who expressed excitement at the imminent opening.
During the tour, former President Barack Obama highlighted several key aspects of the facility, which aims to honor his presidency. Notable features will include a museum section showcasing Michelle Obama’s iconic dresses and an audio and recording studio designed to provide young visitors with opportunities to learn storytelling techniques.
Covering an expansive 20 acres near the lake, the center will encompass various amenities, including gardens, playgrounds, and a striking 225-foot museum tower. Kim Patterson, who conducted the tour, noted design choices made with both function and community feedback in mind, particularly regarding the building’s reduced number of windows. “Sunlight is just not a friend to the artwork and the artifacts that are going inside of the building,” Patterson explained.
The unique architectural shape of the structure—designed to simulate four hands coming together—symbolizes the significance of unity and collective action. Furthermore, community engagement played a crucial role in the development of the project. Feedback from local residents led to a decision to move the planned parking garage underground, allowing for the creation of a vibrant playground above ground.
Valerie Jarrett, former senior advisor to Obama and current CEO of the Obama Foundation, expressed her personal connection to the project, citing her roots in the South Shore area. She discussed the significant effort made to ensure community involvement and highlighted Obama’s hands-on approach to the design and programming choices.
An exciting culinary partnership has also been formed for the center’s cafeteria, involving renowned Chicago Chef Cliff Rome and Bon Appétit Management Company. The focus will be on affordable, appealing food choices for visitors, reflecting a commitment to inclusive practices in business partnerships.
The library will also make history as Obama is the first president to digitize all of his White House documents, a move that aligns with his tech-savvy approach. This digitization aims to create a valuable resource for researchers and students alike, incorporating a wide array of materials from tweets to emails.
The Obama Presidential Library is expected to bring around 800,000 visitors annually, serving as both a tribute to the former president and a hub for inspiring individuals to enact change in their communities. Jarrett hopes it will foster a sense of agency among visitors, encouraging them to recognize their potential for positive impact in the world. The project stands as a testament to community involvement, inclusivity, and the celebration of history, setting a positive tone for the future.