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: A Sporting Life
Now on display
Sports were important to Gerald R. Ford throughout his life, shaping the belief in hard work, the value of teamwork, and the sense of fair play that became hallmarks of his political career. From the football teams of his youth to playing across the political aisle in the cutthroat congressional baseball league to discussing politics in the pool with Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and French President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, Ford believed that athletics built more than muscle. This exhibition showcases some of the unique memorabilia of Gerald Ford’s sporting life—as a player, as a fan, and as the nation’s athlete-in-chief.
All programs are held at the Library unless stated otherwise
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Exhibit in Ann Arbor | |
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Gerald Ford: A Sporting Life Ongoing Sports were important to Gerald R. Ford throughout his life, shaping the belief in hard work, the value of teamwork, and the sense of fair play that became hallmarks of his political career. From the football teams of his youth to playing across the political aisle in the cutthroat congressional baseball league to discussing politics in the pool with Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and French President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, Ford believed that athletics built more than muscle. This exhibition showcases some of the unique memorabilia of Gerald Ford’s sporting life—as a player, as a fan, and as the nation’s athlete-in-chief. |
| Events in Ann Arbor | |
November 10, 2022 Noon EST |
Gerald R. Ford in the U.S. Navy In honor of Veteran’s Day, library archivists will explore the Naval career of Ford. From his time training in Annapolis, Maryland and Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to his assignment aboard the USS Monterey in the Pacific Theater, we will share items from our collection to highlight his many accomplishments during his four-year stint. Bring your own lunch to eat during the program. No reservations are required to attend.
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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.
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.
College work study, internship, and volunteer opportunities are suspended until further notice.
