Biden launches a fundraising push to build his presidential library in Delaware

Published: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 12:51 pm

Biden Embarks on Fundraising for Presidential Library

President Joe Biden is moving forward with plans to establish his presidential library in Delaware. The Joe and Jill Biden Foundation has approved a 13-person governance board to oversee the project, which will be responsible for fundraising and site selection. The board includes prominent figures such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and longtime advisor Steve Ricchetti.

The fundraising effort faces challenges, including a fractured political landscape and potential hesitancy from traditional donors. Some Democratic donors have become less inclined to contribute, and the current political climate may influence corporate and institutional donors.

The cost of presidential libraries has increased significantly over time. The George H.W. Bush library cost approximately $43 million, while Bill Clinton's library cost around $165 million. George W. Bush's library fundraising goal was $500 million, and the Obama Foundation has set a $1.6 billion goal. The Biden team anticipates the project's cost will fall somewhere between the Obama Center and the Bush library.

The library team has consulted with officials from 12 of the 13 presidential libraries managed by the National Archives and Records Administration, as well as the Obama library. They are also engaging with Delaware leaders to explore potential partnerships.

The library's initial vision includes an immersive museum showcasing Biden's four years in office. The Bidens also envision the library as a center for leadership, service, and civic engagement, with educational and event spaces.

Compared to some recent predecessors, Biden's planning for the library has been relatively slow. The project is funded by private donations to a nonprofit organization established by the President.

BNN's Perspective:

Building a presidential library is a significant undertaking, and the success of the Biden project will depend on navigating the current political climate and securing sufficient funding. While the fundraising environment presents challenges, the library's potential to serve as a hub for civic engagement and education is a worthy goal.

Keywords: Joe Biden, Presidential Library, Fundraising, Delaware, Antony Blinken, Steve Ricchetti, Rufus Gifford, Obama Presidential Center, Presidential Libraries, Museum, Civic Engagement, Donations

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