LBJ Library Celebrates 40 Years

The LBJ Library was dedicated May 22, 1971, a little over two years after Johnson left office. It is one of the 13 presidential libraries run by the National Archives and Records Administration and the only one that does not charge admission.

The ten-story building, with its stark travertine exterior, sits on a 30-acre site next to the LBJ School of Public Affairs on the University of Texas campus. Its lines are somewhat softened by beds of native Texas plants and wildflowers dedicated to the memory of former first lady Lady Bird Johnson, who was known for her conservation efforts.

The library and museum maintains a number of permanent exhibits on the life and times of Johnson (including issues he faced in office), a replica of the Oval Office during his presidency (done at 7/8th scale) and the First Lady's Gallery. One somber display that shouldn't be missed is the area dedicated to Nov. 22, 1963, the day Johnson succeeded the slain President John F. Kennedy. It includes recordings, photos and the remarks Johnson prepared before speaking to the nation.

During his brief retirement, the 36th president taught students and started a series of symposia on key issues facing America, which were held at the library. That tradition of re-examining history continues today with the library hosting rotating exhibits on such topics as "Freedom Riders" and "Left to Right: Radical Movements of the 1960s."

Four floors of the library, visible from the main gallery, house 45 million pages of historical documents, including the papers from Johnson's entire public career as well as records of some of the president's contemporaries. In addition, the library is home 1,500 oral history interviews and a large audiovisual collection.

The LBJ Library and Museum (2313 Red River St.) sits near the intersection of 26th and Red River streets. It's open every day except Christmas from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free parking is available in Lot 38 east of the library. Admission is free, but donations are suggested. For information, call 512-721-0200.