Transforming Community Values: Arizona State University's McCain Library Breaks Ground

Groundbreaking ceremony at Arizona State University McCain Library.

Arizona State University’s Transformative Project: The McCain Library

On a brilliant afternoon by Tempe Town Lake, Arizona State University (ASU) celebrated the groundbreaking of the John S. McCain III Library and Museum. This significant event is not just a celebration of a building, but a tribute to a life dedicated to public service and democratic values. ASU President Michael Crow emphasized McCain's embodiment of democracy as a personal responsibility, which serves as a guiding principle for the forthcoming institution.

Located at 200 E. Curry Road, the 80,000-square-foot facility, designed by SHoP Architects, aims to be a hub for learning and civic engagement. Set to open in 2028, it will inhabit a historically significant site framed by both beauty and purpose, transforming the spot of a former tuberculosis sanitarium into a vibrant community space.

A Hub of Leadership and Learning

The McCain Library and Museum is envisioned to be more than a mere repository of artifacts. Crow stated, "This is really more than a library or a museum; it is about the man, the history, and the future." The facility is set to be a tourist destination that focuses on the enduring themes of leadership and service, nurturing a connection to civic virtues among visitors of all ages.

The Immersive Experience

The inside of the library will feature interactive exhibitions designed to draw visitors deep into McCain's legacy. For example, the lobby will showcase a Douglas A-4 Skyhawk—symbolic of McCain's service in the Vietnam War—while exhibits will deeply engage visitors about his experiences, including his time as a prisoner of war. These immersive experiences not only reflect McCain's journey but also resonate with themes of resilience and bravery.

Looking to the Future

The McCain Library and Museum will serve as a beacon for future generations, reminding us of the importance of civic duty. Rick Davis, a longtime aide to McCain, aptly stated that this is about placing a “north star” in the sky for future leaders to aspire towards. In essence, as the ground is turned and construction begins, ASU embarks on a journey that seeks to honor the past while inspiring a future steeped in values that McCain championed throughout his life.

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Transforming Community Values: Arizona State University's McCain Library Breaks Ground

Arizona State University’s Transformative Project: The McCain Library

A Hub of Leadership and Learning

The Immersive Experience

Looking to the Future

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