Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies
The Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies was established in 1974 through the efforts of the Richard B. Russell Foundation, Inc., the Georgia General Assembly and the University System of Georgia Board of Regents. The Library's original mission was to collect and preserve materials that document the life and career of the late Richard B. Russell, United States Senator from Georgia from 1933 to 1971. In the span of more than two decades, the holdings of the Russell Library have expanded to include more than 100 additional collections of papers of post-1900 elected officials, political appointees and individuals and groups representing, persuading, or observing the political and public policy processes in Georgia and the nation.
Film Viewing Room
$100,000
Available
The Film Viewing room is located just inside the Jane McMullan Foyer of the Russell Library Gallery Space. It features a short film narrated by Russell Library Director Sheryl Vogt that explores the origins and mission of the Russell Library.
History Lives Showcase Gallery
$150,000
Available
The History Lives Showcase gallery features some of the most significant and treasured materials from the Russell Library’s collections, highlighting six key collecting areas: The Politics of Politics, Politics of Social Relations, Politics of the Public Good, Politics of the Environment, Politics of the Economy, and Politics of Peace and War. The content in these cases rotates twice a year, and offers visitors a sample of the kinds of documents and objects found in the collections.
Perhaps the most striking element of the showcase gallery is the mural by artist Art Rosenbaum, entitled “Doors.” The mural represents the story of modern Georgia politics from 1900 to the present and depicts many of the major figures and events that shaped the state during this period.
Reflection Room
$150,000
Available
The Reflection Room gives visitors a place to share feedback and participate in the Russell Gallery experience by responding to questions related to the exhibits, by asking new questions, and by considering what others have shared about their experiences. Museum staff will also offer informal conversations or lectures in this space during group tours or special events.
Marquee Gallery
$100,000
Available
This gallery will allow for eye-catching displays, showcasing powerful images and works from the Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies. The position of this gallery at the entrance to the Russell Library provides an opportunity to draw visitors from the large, highly traveled common area. The temporary nature of this space provides ample opportunity to remain responsive to issues and interests of the visiting public and also enables the Library to collaborate and coordinate with the other UGA Libraries special collections
"When we expanded our collection, we wanted not only to collect active participants but also wanted to do retrospective collecting. We are very conscious to collect papers that represent the full diversity of experience and perspective of our culture."
– Sheryl Vogt, Director, Richard B. Russell Library for Political Research and Studies