Upholding Universal Values
The Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum encourages research and provides a narrative of the life and presidency of Herbert Hoover and Lou Henry Hoover and their contemporaries upon the American experience and beyond through educational and outreach programs, exhibits, website, social media, and partnering with stakeholders in the global Hoover legacy. We protect, preserve, and provide access to the records and artifacts entrusted to our care.
More than keepers of objects, Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum (HHPLM) shares the story of Herbert and Lou Henry’s global legacy, which is just as powerful as those built by the most recognized presidential families. The Hoovers’ principles of integrity, hard work, simplicity, and generosity guided them throughout their lives of service to the nation and the world. The pair were change-makers driven by values that transcend politics—in fact, much of their influential work was achieved in the years before and after the presidency.
Believing that every individual should have the opportunity to rise to the level of their talents and ambitions, Herbert and Lou Henry earnestly worked on behalf of others. Among their achievements of incomparable magnitude was food relief for millions of starving people across the globe during and after the two world wars.
With a commitment to sharing the largely unknown stories of the Hoovers and to inspiring others to advocate for positive change in their own communities, the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum opened its doors on August 10, 1962—Herbert Hoover’s 88th birthday.
Located in West Branch on the grounds of the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, which is also home to Herbert’s two-room birthplace cottage and gravesite, HHPLM underwent a remodel and expansion 30 years ago. Though the values of President and First Lady Hoover are evergreen, the then contemporary exhibits no longer adequately tell the Hoovers’ quintessential American story. The HHPLM experience must evolve in step with the expectations of today’s museum-goers.
To reestablish the museum’s connection with visitors through an elevated storytelling experience, the Hoover Presidential Foundation is embarking on a visionary Timeless Values | Modern Experience campaign for the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum.
