Dear Dr. Turner:

I understand that the Southern Methodist University Board of Trustees has recommended its campus to house the George W. Bush Presidential Library, Museum, and Institute. The SMU campus, given its beauty and location in an exciting urban setting, is an excellent site for the Library and related facilities. SMU has an outstanding reputation and academic environment, and I am very pleased to approve proceeding consistent with the Trustees’ recommendation.

When he dedicated the first presidential library, President Franklin Roosevelt said that he hoped the public would use it to “learn from the past” and “gain in judgment in creating their own future.” I hope the same will be true of this library. I look forward to the day when both the general public and scholars come and explore the important and challenging issues our Nation has faced during my presidency – from economic and homeland security to fighting terrorism and promoting freedom and democracy.

Laura joins me in thanking you, the SMU Board of Trustees, and the faculty and staff for all the time and effort devoted to this project. We are proud the library will be at SMU.

Sincerely,

George W. Bush