The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library, a unique historic event space, is a hidden gem in Ann Arbor. Conveniently situated on the University of Michigan's North Campus, it offers a prestigious setting perfect for various functions, from corporate meetings and collegiate receptions to special dinners. With customizable floorplans and both indoor and outdoor areas, the Library can accommodate your vision, whether you're planning an award ceremony, celebratory dinner, poster session, or a corporate conference requiring multiple breakout rooms.
Library Main Lobby
The expansive main lobby of the Library is an exceptional setting for dinners, The expansive main lobby of the Library is an exceptional setting for dinners, special addresses, and strolling receptions. A variety of permanent and temporary exhibits serve as an impressive backdrop and limited A/V is available.
Capacity:
Sit-down dinner: 120
Standing reception: 250
Library Auditorium
The versatile auditorium is ideal for a wide range of functions, including symposiums, educational presentations, cultural events, award ceremonies, and musical performances. It is fully equipped with an integrated projector and screen, as well as a complete suite of 13 microphones (goose neck, wireless stick, and lavalier). A PTZ camera is also included, making seamless hybrid in-person and virtual meetings easily achievable (virtual meeting platform not provided). It can also be completely refigured to accommodate poster sessions or seated dinners.
Capacity: 200
Library Classrooms
This flexible classroom space is perfect for meetings and breakout sessions. It can be easily partitioned into two separate rooms, offering excellent layout options. The room is equipped with a projector and screen.
Capacity: Full Room: 40
Patio and Outdoor Space
For seasonal functions, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library grounds are available. The patio and well-groomed lawn offer the perfect space for cocktail hour or small seated reception, weather permitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flower arrangements are allowed but nothing may be hung or taped on the walls and no glitter or confetti may be used. The existing flags and bunting are permanent fixtures of the Library and cannot be removed.
Yes, alcohol is allowed but must be served from a licensed and insured bartender - no self-serve or cash bars allowed.
If the event starts after 5 p.m. all the spaces are available for you and your guests (there are 35 spots) and the UM lot across the street is free. If the event starts before 5pm, consult our parking guide!
Yes.
Yes, we have eight high top tables, eight six-foot rectangular tables, and 100 chairs for guest seating included in the facility fee. Yes, we have 8 hightop tables, 24 - 6’ rectangular tables, and 120 chairs for guest seating included in the facility fee, along with 200 auditorium chairs. We do not, however, provide linens for any of the tables. We will set up and break down tables and chairs that we own. If you are bringing in tables and chairs from an outside company we do not set up those and that must be arranged ahead of time with the rental company or catering staff.
Currently we are not renting the facility for weddings. Rehearsal dinners and showers are permitted, however.
No, you may choose whichever vendors you’d like. However, we do require a site visit if they haven’t previously been here in an official capacity.
If it is before 4:45 p.m., the public does still have access to the lobby. After 4:45pm, the lobby is closed to the public.
Resources
Contact the Special Events Coordinator
Call: 734-205-0569 or E-mail: Terra Brock, for information about facility availability, or to review regulations on use of the facility and the application process.