Pardon our dust! While parts of the museum are temporarily closed for renovation, we’re still open.
A New Experience for a New Generation.
The LBJ Presidential Library is renewing its permanent exhibition (4th floor) — bringing history, civics, and public service to life for the next generation of citizens. The redesigned experience will help today’s visitors — students, families, and lifelong learners — connect the story of Lyndon Johnson’s presidency with the challenges and choices our nation faces today.
The design of the updated exhibition is guided by the following goals:
Deepen Engagement and Understanding - The enhanced exhibition will present a more comprehensive narrative of LBJ’s presidency, exploring the challenges, strategies, and historical context behind his landmark legislation. It will highlight the role of civic movements and bipartisan cooperation. Enhancements will include expanded archival content, interactive features, and improved exhibit flow to better serve both self-guided visitors and guided tours.
Making History Relevant Today - Visitors will be encouraged to draw connections between LBJ’s legacy and contemporary social and political issues. The exhibition will examine the lasting impact of Civil Rights and Great Society legislation, shifts in political dynamics since the 1960s, as well as ongoing debates about the government’s role in society.
Advance Civic Literacy - The permanent exhibition will align with current national and Texas educational standards and incorporate interactive and audiovisual elements designed to engage diverse learning styles. It will illustrate how the legislative process works and the power and responsibilities of democratic participation. These enhancements will also support the LBJ Library’s education department in developing new curriculum resources and classroom activities for K-12 schools and an updated interpretive plan supporting expanded public engagement.
Gallery Highlights – A Reimagined Journey Through the Johnson Years
Origins of Ambition
What early experiences forged LBJ’s drive to transform the nation?
Making of a President
How did his leadership and political skill shape a transformative first year?
Poverty & Racial Injustice
What can we learn from LBJ’s fight against inequality and the voices of those it impacted?
Space Race
How did the pursuit of space exploration reflect Cold War tensions and advance innovation?
1968
Why did this year mark a turning point in LBJ’s presidency and America’s trajectory?
Project timeline and updates
The renovations are well underway, which means our fourth floor is currently closed. Exhibit design and content development were recently completed in partnership with museum design experts, historians, and educators. Construction and installation began in October 2025 and are expected to be completed in spring 2026.
Support the Project
The core exhibition capital project represents a $4 million investment in education, civic literacy, and historical understanding. Philanthropic support helps ensure that this vital resource continues to educate, inspire, and connect future generations to a defining era of American democracy.
Donor Recognition Opportunities:
- Gallery Naming within the new exhibition spaces
- Donor Wall acknowledgment inside the Library
- VIP Access to the grand-opening celebration
To Learn More or Make a Gift:
Contact Dan Perry, Chief Development Officer
📧 dperry@lbjfoundation.org | 📞 (512) 826-9605
Ready to plan your visit? Here’s what to expect.
