William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum

Integrated into the larger complex of  The Clinton Presidential Center,  the  Clinton Library and Museum in Little Rock is a fitting tribute to the man who presided over the dot-com boom of the 90s.  Visitors enter to a room featuring the presidential limousine and attend a short orientation in the auditorium.  When we were there, the orientation featured a film on Clinton's political career (narrated by Clinton) and then a live speaker to talk a bit about the goals and ongoing work of the Clinton Foundation.  Visitors learn about the library's work in the Little Rock community, including walk-a-thons and other events.  We also learned about the Center's commitment to sustainability, and its project to rebuild the Rock Island Railroad Bridge as part of a plan to rejuvenate a formerly depressed area of Little Rock.

No important modern building seems to escape controversy over architecture, and the Clinton Library brings its share. FranaWiki covers the debate:

The main building, comprising the Clinton Library Museum and Great Hall, has been variously called a "bridge to the 21st century" (a favorite Clinton expression) as it cantilevers ninety feet out towards the Arkansas River's edge, and as the "presidential double-wide" for its color, shape, and association with a president from small-town Arkansas. The Library is essentially a long, rectangular box elevated forty feet off the ground. A two-story veranda is attached to three sides of the building.

Elevators take visitors to the exhibit floors.   One display re-creates the Oval Office during Clinton's presidency; visitors aren't allowed in this room, but in the cabinet room, guests can seat themselves where they wish and pose for pictures. Bring a camera that works in indoor light (and perhaps a portable tripod) because photography is allowed, but flashes aren't.

Floor-to-ceiling cubicles (or alcoves, according to the site) showcase various Clinton initiatives and accomplishments, particularly international humanitarian and diplomatic efforts.  A timelined display case in the center holds the usual artifacts and mementos--I found a letter from Roddy McDowell, in impeccable English, congratulating Clinton.  Another reviewer remembered a letter from Tony Danza, so I guess there is something for everyone here!  Binder-clad copies of Clinton's schedule are available along the timeline case, so visitors can see what Clinton was doing on any given day.  This room is a little overwhelming with information and multi-media displays, and it might be easy to get separated from traveling companions here. Take your time, and perhaps pick and choose the areas that interest you the most.

Another floor is packed with more artifacts, with the obligatory (but always fascinating) collection of gifts from various heads of state.  The Clinton White House Christmas decorations are featured, along with plenty of Buddy and Socks memorabilia.  The Clinton Christmas decorations for the White House are also here, as is a collection of saxophones.  This is the most interesting area for school-aged children, and it personalizes the president and his family.

We ate at Cafe 42 (reviewed in '04 by a local paper) on the lower floor for lunch.  It seemed that the chefs were trying to meld Southern cooking with more experimental cuisines.  We enjoyed our meals, but one large group of diners were extremely upset about their food; I suspect they may have been expecting more traditional fare.  So, be aware that it isn't a fried-chicken and pulled-pork diner.

The gift shop isn't located within the museum; it's a couple blocks away.  Trams ferry visitors back and forth, and it's a manageable walk if the weather isn't bad.  It's definitely worth making the trip.  The shop offers all the usual paraphernalia, plus items reflecting the Clinton Foundation's international work, and, perhaps in recognition of Vice President Gore's work, information and supplies for Green living.  There are also plenty of books, including the memoirs by the Clintons and books on his presidency as well as historical works and plenty of children's books.  Kids will love the selection of stuffed presidential pets--we picked up a miniature Bo, but you can also get Buddy or Socks.  The Clinton pets also show up on postcards--look for Buddy swimming in the White House fountain.

Follow the William J. Clinton Presidential Library on Facebook.

From the website:

Hours & Admissions

Hours 
Monday – Saturday:    9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday:   1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

In the event of bad weather, closure or alternate hours will be posted on our automated recording at 501-374-4242.

Admission 
Adults (18-61) $7.00
Senior citizens (62+) $5.00
College Students (w/ Valid ID) $5.00
Retired Military (w/ Valid ID)$5.00
Children (6-17) $3.00
Children under 6 Free
UACS Faculty and Staff Free
School Groups w/ Reservations Free
All Active Duty Military are Free

Groups of 20 persons or more with reservations are eligible for a reduced adult-rate admission of $5 per person. If you want a guided tour you must make your reservation at least 14 days in advance. Walk-in groups are always welcome but only on a self-guided basis. To make a reservation or to ask questions please contact the Volunteer and Visitor Services Office at 501-748-0419.