Donate

The Library’s focus on collections is centered upon both published and unpublished materials in the fields of—Illinois & American history as well as the life and times of Abraham Lincoln.

Illinois & American history is defined broadly to include politics, culture, religion, business, labor, and family life.  The Library is interested in books and records relating to famous Illinoisans and others less-well-known who were witnesses to history.  Examples of materials the Library seeks include: rare books, personal papers, organizational and business records, bound family histories, prints, photographs, newspapers, and video and sound recordings.

Items are carefully selected for inclusion in the Lincoln Collection.  The Library is interested in acquiring artifacts, papers, manuscripts, and both published and unpublished items associated with Abraham Lincoln, his family, and associates.  This can include material from every phase of the Lincoln story including both his ancestors and descendants as well as their lives beyond the boundaries of Illinois.

Monetary gifts are the easiest for the donor and provide the most flexibility for use where funds are needed most.  In addition, monetary gifts and legacy gifts such as bequests can be earmarked for the Permanent Home Campaign.  Please consider making a donation to our Foundation.  

Eliminating the debt incurred in acquiring a prized collection of more than fifteen hundred Lincoln artifacts and documents from renowned collector Louise Taper is the goal of the Permanent Home Campaign.  The Taper Collection augments the Library's unparalleled holdings of Lincoln papers and artifacts.  Donations to the collection can be made through our Foundation.

You can assist the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in preserving our rich history by donating old or new materials, including family papers, manuscripts, documents related to Abraham Lincoln and his family or contemporaries, rare or new books, photographs, and business papers.