Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss the Presidential Library System run by the United States National Archives and Records Service and analyze how its history and the legislation surrounding the presidential libraries can create conflicting missions and controversy. Design/methodology/approach This is a viewpoint focusing on several recent events in the news concerning presidential libraries that highlight their ambiguous position. Findings The paper finds that presidential libraries and museums are a national resource and sites for learning, teaching and scholarship. However, the full potential of these institutions is often not realized due to insufficient funding and inconsistent legislation both resulting in lack of access to the records. This also leads to misunderstandings and controversies surrounding these institutions. Practical implications Access to government records is a hallmark of democracy. Understanding how access to the records of former presidents has been determined provided insight into access to all government records. Originality/value The paper provides a context for analyzing current events relating to presidential libraries.
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