Former President Joe Biden has officially kicked off efforts to build his presidential library in Delaware, calling on close aides, friends, and political allies to lead fundraising and select a site for the museum and archives.
The Joe and Jill Biden Foundation recently approved a 13-person governance board to guide the project. Notable members include Secretary of State Antony Blinken, longtime adviser Steve Ricchetti, Democratic fundraiser Rufus Gifford, former senior White House aides Elizabeth Alexander, Julissa Reynoso Pantaleón, Cedric Richmond, and former Delaware Governor Jack Markell.
Biden’s team faces a challenging fundraising environment. Many major Democratic donors have slowed contributions, and corporate and institutional supporters may hesitate amid political tensions, including frequent criticism from former President Donald Trump.
The cost of presidential libraries has grown significantly over the years. George H.W. Bush’s library opened in 1997 at roughly Ksh 6.4 billion, while Bill Clinton’s cost about Ksh 24.7 billion. The Obama Presidential Centre set a record with a Ksh 240 billion fundraising goal. Gifford expects Biden’s library to fall somewhere in between. Like other presidential libraries, the project will be entirely funded by private donations.
The Biden library is envisioned as more than a museum. It will feature immersive exhibits on his presidency, educational and event spaces, and programs designed to promote civic engagement and leadership.
Delaware was chosen for its central role in Biden’s political journey. He served as a U.S. Senator from Delaware for 36 years and began his career on the New Castle County Council in 1970. “The new presidential library here in Delaware will give future generations the chance to see his story of resilience, family, and never forgetting your roots,” said Governor Matt Meyer.
With planning now underway, the Biden Presidential Library promises to preserve his legacy while inspiring civic engagement and leadership for generations to come.
