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.
In Step with Betty Ford: In Celebration of Her Centennial
Opens April 10, 2018
Grand Rapids' Central High graduate, student of dance, New York model, proud mother, and Congressman's wife. First Lady Betty Ford spoke openly about personal and political issues near and dear to her heart; her courage endeared her to the American people as she found herself in step with the times.
All programs are held at the Library unless stated otherwise
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Exhibit in Ann Arbor | |
| April 2018 through January 2019 | In Step with Betty Ford - A Celebration of Her Centennial
Betty Ford never imagined she would be First Lady. She grew up training to be a dancer, then became a Congressman's wife and mother of four children. When she and her husband were thrust into the White House in 1974, Betty was determined to be herself. She spoke honestly, candidly, and courageously to the press and to the American people. She lent her voice to women's rights, children's health, the American arts, and more. Betty faced her own health issues openly and with sincerity. As America watched her move across this unexpected stage, many found themselves in step with Betty Ford. This version of In Step with Betty Ford was created for the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library in Ann Arbor! |
| November 27 through December 2018 | A Collection of Creative Quilts The Ann Arbor Modern Quilt Guild (A2MQG) is a group of quilters whose goal is to create a positive community where modern quilters can share knowledge of their craft, learn new quilting techniques, engage in charitable activities, and discuss topics relating to the quilting community. A2MQG members enjoy creating quilts with a modern look-and-feel. Modern quilting covers a wide variety of techniques ranging from use of a large amount of negative space, using fabrics created by modern quilt designers, innovative patterns, and improvisational techniques. You will even see the use of patterns typically considered traditional, but put together in a new, unique way or using unexpected combinations of colors and fabrics. Basically, it is all fair game and we invite and accept all levels of quilters from beginner to expert, hand-piecers to all machine, hand-quilters to longarmers (machine quilted). A2MQG prides itself on donating quilts to area charities each year. The guild is a non-profit organization and part of the national Modern Quilt Guild. You can find more information on the guild at http://www.a2mqg.org. |
| Events in Ann Arbor | |
| December 24, 2018 | Library Closed |
| December 25, 2018 | Library Closed |
| December 31, 2018 | Library Research Room Closing at 12:00 PM |
| January 1, 2019 | Library Closed |
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.
For further information, contact Stacy Davis: (734) 205-0563
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.
The expansive main lobby of the Library is an exceptional setting for dinners, special addresses, and receptions. A variety of permanent and temporary exhibits serve as an impressive backdrop.
Capacity: Sit-down dinner - 120 / Standing reception - 250
The 1,700 square foot stage and audio/visual equipped auditorium has the versatility to accommodate symposiums, educational presentations, cultural events, award ceremonies, and musical performances, among others.
Capacity: 200
These areas are ideal for meetings and seminars where participants need a classroom atmosphere and set-up. The classroom can be divided into two rooms, with excellent layout possibilities.
Capacity: Full Room - 40
For seasonal functions, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library grounds are available. The patio, well-groomed lawn and garden backdrop offer the perfect venue for more casual company events.
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 Museum as an educational, research, or cultural institution (no weddings, proms, or similar events).
Call: 734-205-0555 / E-mail: ford.library@nara.gov
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.
For college work-study opportunities, contact Stacy Davis: (734) 205-0563
For intern and volunteer opportunities, contact Geir Gundersen: (734) 205-0556
