Jimmy Carter Library and Museum

Recently we were visiting Atlanta, Georgia and saw a sign for the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Since we have never visited a presidential library, we decided that it was time to learn more about President Jimmy Carter and tour his museum.

Jimmy Carter Library and Museum Visit

About the Museum

When we pulled into the parking lot, the kids asked me what all I knew about President Carter. I was less than 8 while he was President so my knowledge was limited to one memory. I can remember praying every day in 2nd grade for the 52 hostages in Iran. I remember President Carter’s name associated with that event.

I was ready to learn more about one of our modern, living presidents.
The Museum of the Jimmy Carter Library includes photographs and historical memorabilia from the Carter presidency (1976 – 1981). An exact replica of the Oval Office and gifts received by the Carters are also featured. A permanent exhibit of significant events occurring during Jimmy Carter’s life and political career includes photographs with interpretative text.

Carter Presidential Library and Museum

The museum was full of interactive exhibits where the kids could get hands on with modern history. The boys enjoyed checking out the submarine. Did you realize President Carter was a submariner in the Navy?

A Submarine Experience

One of the neat things about the museum was being able to see what the Oval Office looked like during his presidency. This led to the discussion about how each President can decorate the Oval Office to their personal taste.

Visiting the Carter Oval Office

The Bible used at President Carter’s Inauguration

Presidential Libraries

Presidential Libraries promote understanding of the presidency and the American experience. We preserve and provide access to historical materials, support research, and create interactive programs and exhibits that educate and inspire.
There are 13 Presidential Libraries in the US. This was our first introduction to a Presidential Library but it won’t be our last. It was educational and even interesting to see so many authentic items from President Carter’s Presidency.

Examining the items in the Presidential Archives

President Carter’s Archives

Museum Admission

Adults: $8
Seniors (60+), Military, and Students with IDs: $6
16 and under: free
Parking: Free

Museum Hours

M – Sat: 9am – 4:45pm
Sun: noon – 4:45pm

Have you ever visited a Presidential Library? Which would you be most interested in visiting?
Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry S. Truman, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald R. Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush, William J. Clinton, George W. Bush