Presidential Archives & Leadership Library

The Presidential Archives and Leadership Library is located on the campus of the University of Texas of the Permian Basin and is administered by the John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Institute. The archival collection was begun by local Odessa citizens as a memorial to the memory of President John F. Kennedy shortly after his assassination in 1963. There was such an overwhelming response with information about other presidents that a decision was made to create a unique collection that would be dedicated to the office of the presidency and an understanding of the electoral process. It is an outstanding collection of exhibits, campaign memorabilia, books, photos, magazines, and other historic collectibles that tell the history of the office of the president and of events that have shaped the American people. This dynamic collection continues to grow and expand as each new president takes office and is available to both the casual visitor and the serious scholar. Few experiences have greater impact than an encounter with history. The mission of the Archives is to have that impact.