The Clinton Presidential Center celebrates its twentieth year

Little Rock, Arkansas – The Clinton Presidential Center has now stood in Little Rock’s East Village for 20 years, shining brightly on the banks of the Arkansas River.

The Clintons officially opened the Clinton Presidential Center to the public on November 18, 2004, when the Clinton family welcomed visitors for the first time.

It is more than simply a single structure, being one of only fifteen presidential libraries. The Clinton Foundation’s Little Rock offices, the Clinton School of Public Service, a museum honoring Clinton’s two terms in office, and all of the records and documents related to the Clinton presidency are located on one site.

Twenty years later, the center still inspires and educates tourists from all over the world, and its motivation extends to those who work in the background.

Since her first year at the center in 2004, Ann Kamps has supported the efforts of the almost 150 volunteers who keep the presidential library and museum operating like a well-oiled machine.
According to Kamps, “what happened 30 years ago is still affecting us today.” “Being here is an honor for us, as we are the bridge builders.”

She has witnessed firsthand over the years the positive effects the center has had on volunteers like Patrick Jacob, who joined in 2019.

Jacob remarked, “I visited the website and read about it.” when I came across a link that read “volunteer.”

As the Arkansas National Guard’s active duty member and Volunteer of the Year, Jacob embodies the core values of the center: service, community, and education.

Looking back on the occasion, Jacob remarked, “You have people who have been here, volunteers who have been here since the doors opened.” “That is incredibly motivating.”

He clarified that the Clinton Center holds more than just records and artifacts; it also tells the tale of a resident of the Natural State who rose to prominence as a hometown hero.

Jacob stated, “The presence of this center serves as a reminder of opportunities for all Arkansans.”

It serves as a reminder to Kamps, who is focusing on the future on this momentous day rather than the past.

According to Kamps, “Many people believe that a library is about the past.” “I believe it has to do with the future we’re creating by constructing our own bridge to the twenty-first century.”

Before the year ends, the center will have events to commemorate its 20 years, and anyone who hasn’t been is encouraged to stop by.