30 Jul 2019
Truman presidential library and museum closes for US$25m transformation
BY Andy Knaggs
The Harry S. Truman Library and Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, has closed to allow a year-long renovation, which it is hoped will see the facility reopen in time to coincide with the 75th anniversary of Truman becoming US president in 1945.
Among plans within the US$25m (€22.46m, £20.46m) transformation are a new 12,000s ft (3,657sq m) permanent exhibition on Truman, along with upgrades to the visitor experience, including improved storytelling, enhanced interactive and technology-based experiences, and a comprehensive educational strategy.
Within the educational programme, Truman's legacy will be used to teach young people about American history, the presidency and the importance of public service. There will also be increased and targeted community programming, including social and digital media engagement.
Truman was thrust into the presidency upon the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt shortly before the end of the Second World War, and went on to hold the post for eight dramatic years which included the end of the war with both Germany and Japan, the recognition of Israel, and the start of the Korean War.
Through the redevelopment, the museum's entrance will be moved to the east side of the building, where a new 3,000sq ft (914sq m) entrance with a floor-to-ceiling glass facade and a frosted presidential seal will be built. Museum planning and design firm Gallagher & Associates has created the new designs, and is working in collaboration with Monadnock Media, architectural firm The Clark Enersen Partners, and construction company JE Dunn Construction.
Library director Dr Kurt Graham said: "At its heart, the Truman Library is an educational institution. We are so thrilled to be able to offer a 21st century experience and interpretation of one of the great proponents of American democracy."
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